Dr. Jane Lydon

Biography

Jane Lydon’s research centers on Australia’s colonial past and its present legacies. In particular, she is concerned with Australia’s engagement with anti-slavery, humanitarianism, and ultimately human rights. As a white settler scholar, she aims to carry out politically located research that respects Indigenous sovereignty. Her work has contributed to decolonizing heritage academic practice and has had a strong impact on debates regarding colonialism, Australian legacies, and imperialism. Her recent books include 'Imperial Emotions: Politics of Empathy in the British Empire' and 'Anti-slavery Australia: Slavery Free Land?', both of which examine the ramifications of historical movements on contemporary society. She is currently leading an ARC-funded research project titled ‘Australian Legacies of British Slavery: Capital, Land, and Labour’ and has authored many works including seven books and fifteen edited collections. Lydon is actively involved in various scholarly networks and advisory boards, focusing on Australian history, humanitarian movements, and visual cultures. Her teaching roles include courses addressing family history, slavery, and colonialism. Additionally, she engages with public exhibitions and research collaborations dedicated to exploring Australia's historical connections to slavery and its ongoing impact.

Research Interests