"In both world wars, Australia detained people from many parts of the world, not least from Australia itself. For those who favoured and practised internment,the logic appeared impeccable-in times of crisis, national security must be the first priority. For those who found themselves imprisoned, their treatment often seemed bewildering, even absurd. Their 'crime' typically comprised nothing more than being in the wrong place at the wrong time.Captured Lives peers behind the barbed wire veil that was drawn around people deemed threats to Australia's security, both civilian internees and prisoners of war. It observes the state of despair that afflicted so many, but it is also a witness to resilience, creativity and a profound faith in the possibility of building new lives after war.' - back cover.

Contents:
Introduction -- The First World War: The war comes to Australia -- Prisoners of war -- Australia divided -- German concentration camps -- Life in the camps -- The war ends. The Second World War: 'Enemy Aliens": Outbreak of war -- Australia again divided -- Internees within Australia -- Internees from overseas -- The internment camps -- Life inside. The Second World War: Prisoners of War: Captives in the antipodes -- Australia's prisoner-of-war camps -- Working for the enemy -- Escape attempts. The Second World War: Freedom Finally: Release -- References -- Index.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 242-251) and index.