The British Colonies: Conquering Wild Australia Part II

Friends of the English language,
In our previous article, we discussed how Great Britain began the colonization of the Australian continent, declaring the lands east of the 35th meridian as New South Wales. By 1803, with the discovery of more fertile soils around Parramatta, Windsor, Richmond, and Camden, the Australian colony was self-sufficient in grain. The construction of vessels began, facilitating exploratory expeditions and the discovery of new lands suitable for settlement. Additionally, hunting seals and whales provided a valuable food source by sea.
Great Britain formed the New South Wales Corps to assist the officers of the First Fleet. However, this military unit became involved in corruption, mainly through the illegal sale of rum to the colonists. They organized rebellions and briefly seized power until Governor Lachlan Macquarie’s arrival in 1810.
During his 11-year tenure, Macquarie transformed the colony from a penal settlement into a prosperous society of free settlers. He established a bank, built a hospital, and introduced Australia’s own currency. He sent exploratory expeditions to the Blue Mountains, expanding farmland and finding new pastures for livestock. He also helped emancipate former prisoners by recommending them for positions of responsibility.
By 1820, the British settlement in Australia had grown significantly. The colony now numbered 26,000 people within a hundred-kilometre radius of Sydney, with an additional 6,000 settlers in Van Diemen’s Land, now known as Tasmania. By 1840, 55,000 new settlers had arrived in New South Wales and 60,000 in Van Diemen’s Land. The number of people born on the new continent also increased significantly. The British-controlled area expanded enormously with rising wool prices as colonists seized new lands for sheep breeding. Vast areas were conquered for pastures, and wool products were exported to Britain. A new colony was established in present-day Victoria.
Convicts sent to Australia found opportunities for redemption and a fresh start. Some worked for the state, while others were employed by former convicts who had been acquitted. Freed convicts were granted land to cultivate and received a share of the state’s produce for their subsistence. Soon, ordinary citizens rushed to Australia in search of success and land.
In the early years, women made up about 15% of the colony’s population, allowing many to marry successful and wealthy colonists. Over time, the proportion of women in the population increased.
The history of the Australian colony is long and varied. If you’re interested, you can read more about exploring the continent, the challenges of nature, interactions with the Aborigines, and the fight against diseases. Stay tuned for more insightful articles on Australia’s fascinating colonial history.
Author: Iveta Radeva