Sydney is Australia's largest city and the capital of the state of New South Wales. Founded and settled by British convicts, Sydney became one of the chief cities of the British Empire. In the last three decades of the twentieth century, the city has transformed itself into a modern, high-energy metropolis, which is home to nearly 4 million people. Sydney has long been known for its sports, especially swimming and surfing, and in 2000, Sydney hosted the Olympic Games. Great Cities of the World explores what makes Sydney a truly great city. Book jacket.