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Botany Bay and the First Fleet: The Real Story

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Botany Bay and the First Fleet: The Real Story by Alan Frost delves into the establishment of the first European settlement in Australia. It offers an insightful account of the challenges and ambitions of the First Fleet, highlighting the political and logistical efforts behind this pivotal moment in history. Frost uses extensive research to explore the motivations of those involved and the broader implications for the British Empire.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the captivating story of the First Fleet's journey to Australia and the early colonisation efforts. Alan Frost provides a fresh perspective on historical events, delving into the challenges and triumphs faced during this pioneering maritime expedition.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Now in one definitive volume, Botany Bay and the First Fleet is a full, authentic account of the beginnings of modern Australia.

In 1787 a convoy of eleven ships, carrying about 1400 people, set out from England for Botany Bay, on the east coast of New South Wales. In deciding on Botany Bay, British authorities hoped not only to rid Britain of its excess criminals, but also to gain a key strategic outpost and take control of valuable natural resources.

According to the conventional account, it was a shambolic affairβ€”underprepared, poorly equipped and ill-disciplined. Here, Alan Frost debunks these myths and shows that the voyage was, in fact, meticulously planned, reflecting its importance to Britain's imperial and commercial ambitions. In his examination of the ships, passengers, and preparation, Frost reveals the hopes and schemes of those who engineered the voyage, and the experiences of those who made it.

The culmination of thirty-five years' study of previously neglected archives, Botany Bay and the First Fleet offers new and surprising insights into how Australia came to be.

'Fascinating and compelling' - The Weekend Australian

'An exhilarating read. Frost... is a master of the concise overview, leavened with wonderfully chosen, vivid examples... Iconoclastic and refreshing.' - The Sydney Morning Herald

'Highly readable, Frost's work will be enjoyed by anyone with an interest in early Australia.' - The Sunday Herald Sun

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Botany Bay and the First Fleet: The Real Story by Alan Frost offers a revisionist take on the origins of the First Fleet and the foundation of Australia. Critics generally praise the book for its detailed research and fresh perspective, which challenges long-held myths. Frost's work is appreciated for its thorough analysis and documentation, making it a valuable contribution to understanding this historical event.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760641603

Publisher: Black Inc.

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 June 2019

Country: Australia

Imprint: Black Inc.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 38.0mm

Width: 153.0mm

Height: 233.0mm

Weight: 710g

Pages: 512

About the Author

Alan Frost is Emeritus Professor of History at La Trobe University in Melbourne. His previous books include The Voyage of the Endeavour, Arthur Phillip, 1738-1814- His Voyaging, Botany Bay Mirages and The Global Reach of Empire.

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