In the chaotic and factioned world of New Zealand politics before the advent of organised political parties, Edward Stafford reigned supreme. His vision of an independent, democratic and racially tolerant nation set him apart from almost all his contemporaries. His unswervingly liberal views earned him the hatred of Fox, McLean and Vogel, the ire of many of the nation’s most powerful journalists, and the enmity of his own gentry class This outstanding biography of the incredible man who shaped our political system and our nation, and yet has been, until now, largely ignored, will be a delight for historians, followers of politics, readers of biography, and New Zealanders everywhere. Edward Stafford: New Zealand’s First Statesman was shortlisted for the 1995 Montana Book Awards. Also by Edmund Bohan: The Dancing Man, The Opawa Affair.