Source A: Excerpt from a Government Report (1830):

'The transportation of convicts has been instrumental in establishing colonies across the Pacific and Australian territories. These individuals formed the backbone of early settlements and contributed significantly to economic development.'

Historian View:

'Convicts played a crucial role in the expansion of the British Empire, not only by populating new colonies but also by providing a labor force that enabled infrastructure and economic growth.'

Read the following statements:

Statement 1: The British government wanted to reduce overcrowded prisons.

Statement 2: Convicts provided a cheap labor force for developing colonies.

Statement 3: Religious groups saw convict transportation as a way to spread Christianity.

Statement 4: Political leaders sought to demonstrate strength through strict law enforcement.

Task: Categorize each statement as Political, Social, Economic, or Religious.

Based on your understanding, rank the following factors in order of their significance in the transportation of convicts:

• Economic needs
• Political motives
• Religious influence
• Social reasons (prison overcrowding)

Explain your ranking and justify your choices with evidence.