The Politics of Ethnicity in Settler Societies

"Settler states were formed by Europeans through the displacement of aboriginal peoples and the exclusion of 'foreign' migrants. Today, they are often seen as pioneers of pluralistic policies, reflecting a cultural diversity unimaginable a few decades ago. Why have these societies moved from histories of ethnic and national insularity to being at the forefront of multi-cultural change?". "In this wide-ranging work of comparative and historical sociology, David Pearson examines ethnic politics in Australia, Canada and New Zealand, using Britain and the United States as contrasting case studies. Exploring the interdependent processes of aboriginal decolonisation, post-settler state and nation reformation, and globalised migration, he shows how historical origins are still closely related to recent questions about ethnicity and nationalism. The Politics of Ethnicity in Settler Societies challenges many misconceptions about multiculturalism, national and global identity, sovreignty and citizenship, in a lively and accessible fashion."--BOOK JACKET.