Historical Events tagged with "convicts"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Crime & Law

End of Penal Transportation to New South Wales

May 22nd, 1840 184 years ago

The British government officially abolished the practice of penal transportation to the New South Wales colony in 1840, marking a significant change in its penal policy. This decision followed a period of growing public debate about the moral implications and effectiveness of transporting convicts to Australia. The cessation aimed to reform the penal system and explore alternative methods of punishment and rehabilitation within Britain.

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Exploration & Discovery

First Fleet Arrives, Establishing Sydney Settlement

January 26th, 1788 237 years ago

Led by Captain Arthur Phillip, the British First Fleet arrived in Port Jackson to establish a new colony. This marked the founding of Sydney as the first permanent European settlement in Australia. The fleet, comprising 11 ships, carried convicts, marines, and supplies, encountering the natural beauty of the harbor upon their arrival.

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Exploration & Discovery

Second Fleet Ships Arrive at Botany Bay

January 19th, 1788 237 years ago

The arrival of the second group of ships from the First Fleet marked a significant moment in the establishment of the British penal colony in Australia. Commanded by Captain Arthur Phillip, the fleet included several vessels that transported convicts from England to Botany Bay, a location chosen for its natural harbor and potential for settlement. Approximately 500 convicts arrived aboard these ships, alongside crew members and supplies crucial for the fledgling colony. This marked a pivotal expansion of British presence in Australia.

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Exploration & Discovery

First Fleet Arrives at Botany Bay

January 18th, 1788 237 years ago

The First Fleet, comprising eleven ships, arrived at Botany Bay carrying 736 convicts from Great Britain. This monumental journey marked the beginning of the British penal settlement in Australia. Captain Arthur Phillip led the expedition, aimed at establishing a colony for rehabilitating offenders. The fleet faced numerous challenges at sea, including rough weather and scurvy, yet successfully reached its destination, laying the groundwork for future settlements.

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