This book focuses on the endeavors of a generation of high-minded reformers (Syme, Higinbotham and Pearson) to realize a liberal polity and social order in the Australian colonies. It charts the intersections of the public and private lives of these reformers as they sought to achieve a democracy which would be prosperous and improve their lives. Macintyre looks at the outcomes of their endeavors and how they responded to their disappointments.