During the late 18th and 19th centuries, Britain transported thousands of convicts to Australia as part of its colonization efforts. The primary reasons included overcrowded prisons, the need for penal reform, and the desire to establish a British presence in the Pacific region.

Convicts were sent across the world to serve their sentences, but this also had significant consequences for the development of Australian colonies and indigenous populations.

Source A: Excerpt from a Convict's Letter, 1810 'Life on the ship was harsh, with little food and constant disease. Once in Australia, we faced hard labor and strict discipline. Yet, some of us saw it as a chance for a new start.'

Source B: Government Report, 1820 'Convicts are a necessary element in establishing our colonies. Their labor is vital for building infrastructure and expanding our settlements.'

These sources provide contrasting perspectives on the convict experience and the government’s view of convicts' role in colonization.

The transportation of convicts had lasting effects on Australian society. It contributed to the growth of cities, development of infrastructure, and cultural diversity. However, it also led to the displacement of Indigenous peoples and tensions between free settlers and convicts.

The end of transportation in the mid-19th century marked a new chapter in Australian history, shifting focus to free settlement and economic independence.

Historians debate whether convict transportation was primarily beneficial or harmful to Australia’s development. Some argue it laid the foundations for modern society, while others highlight its negative impacts on Indigenous communities and social justice.

Consider these perspectives when evaluating the overall impact of colonization through convict transportation.