Convicts and the Colonies

This foundation text presents a close look at the transportation system that sets it in its context as one of various modes of punishment used in the English penal system. It considers the reformatory as well as the deterrent features of the system. The author reminds us that Australia was not the only colony to which British statesmen wanted to send their felons, and discusses projects of transportation to the American colonies and South Africa. He throws light on some of the considerations which led to the foundation of Australia and the 'choice of Botany Bay'. His discussion of the character of the convicts settles many of the longstanding arguments about the criminality of Australia's founders by subjecting their records to rigorous scrutiny.