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Russia sent its prisoners to Siberia, while France sent theirs to harsh locations like Devil’s Island in the Caribbean or New Caledonia in the South Pacific. Portugal transported offenders to Brazil or North Africa, and England commonly sent theirs to North American colonies, including Newfoundland.
After losing their American colonies due to the Revolution, England found an alternative in Australia, which they claimed for King George III. In 1786, the government decided to send hundreds of convicts to New South Wales in Australia’s southeastern region. This move aimed to strengthen Britain’s territorial claims and counter other nations exploring the Pacific Islands.
The fleet carried 582 male prisoners, 193 female prisoners, and 14 children of convict families, along with 247 marines and their families. After an eight-month voyage with stops along the way, the fleet arrived at Botany Bay on Jan. 18, 1788, with 48 deaths and 28 births during the journey.
Upon assessing Botany Bay, the leaders realized it was unsuitable for a colony due to water scarcity and poor soil. They chose a new site at what is now Sydney Harbour, marking the beginning of European colonization on Jan. 26, celebrated as Australia Day.
Convicts were incentivized with pardons and emancipation for good behavior and skills. While some became successful professionals, the system also involved brutality and exploitation, leading to escape attempts and rebellions.
By the end of penal transportation in 1868, around 165,000 prisoners had been sent to Australia, leading to the formation of a federated Commonwealth of Australia in 1901.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
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