[1] Alfred Deakin (1856–1919) – a barrister, journalist and important Federation era politician – was born in Melbourne in 1856.

He played a significant part in shaping the Australian Constitution, and arguing the case for unity of the colonies.

[2] Deakin was a fine orator and major player in the establishment of the institutions of Australian Democracy, and served three times in the office of Prime Minister during the first ten years of Australia's Federation.

[3] Alfred Deakin became Prime Minister after Edmund Barton resigned to become a judge on the first High Court of Australia.

[4] The first Deakin government failed to pass any legislation in the newly formed Australian Federal Parliament.