Who they were
Curtin entered politics through the labour movement and journalism and became prime minister in 1941, in the middle of the war. Japan’s southward advance brought Australia its first direct threat to the mainland.
What they did
He clearly chose cooperation with the United States in place of Britain and brought home troops from overseas to defend the country, reorganising the nation for total war.
Legacy
Worn out, he died in office in July 1945, just before the war ended. Curtin is regarded as one of the most respected prime ministers, who led Australia through its time of crisis.