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Convict Colony

The remarkable story of the fledgling settlement that survived against the odds
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( 200 ratings, 21 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
This book offers a detailed exploration of Australia's early history, focusing on the challenges and experiences of the convicts, marines, and settlers who formed the first British colony down under. It examines the harsh realities of life during this period and provides insights into the complex interactions between the newcomers and Indigenous peoples. Through vivid storytelling, David Hill brings to life the struggles and resilience of those who helped shape the beginnings of a nation.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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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 work if you're interested in the dramatic stories of the early penal colonies in Australia. It delves into the challenges faced by settlers and convicts, revealing the harsh realities and surprising resilience of those involved in this fascinating chapter of history. With rich detail and engaging storytelling, it's perfect for history enthusiasts eager to explore the impact of Britain's ambitious colonial ventures.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The author of the magnificent bestselling account of the First Fleet returns to early Sydney to tell the story of the years that followed as it's never been told before.

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

The British plan to settle Australia was a high-risk venture. We now take it for granted that the first colony was the basis of one of the most successful nations in the world today. But in truth, the New World of the 18th century was dotted with failed colonies, and New South Wales nearly joined them.

The motley crew of unruly marines and bedraggled convicts who arrived at Botany Bay in 1788 in leaky boats nearly starved to death. They could easily have been murdered by hostile locals, been overwhelmed by an attack from French or Spanish expeditions, or brought undone by the Castle Hill uprising of 1804. Yet through fortunate decisions, a few remarkably good leaders, and most of all good luck, Sydney survived and thrived.

Bestselling historian David Hill tells the story of the first three decades of Britain's earliest colony in Australia in a fresh and compelling way.

David Hill captures Australia's past in a very readable way. The Weekly Times

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?

Convict Colony by David Hill is praised for its compassionate writing and ability to humanise diverse characters, ranging from the ambitious and emotionally distant to the loyal and poor. Hill's narrative draws readers into the lives of these historical figures, bringing the early convict era to life with empathy and depth.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760528669

Publisher: Allen & Unwin

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 October 2019

Country: Australia

Imprint: Allen & Unwin

Illustration: 16-pp colour plate section

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 27.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 233.0mm

Weight: 515g

Pages: 342

About the Author

David Hill is the author of ten books, including the bestsellers 1788: The Brutal Truth of the First Fleet, The Forgotten Children, The Great Race and The Making of Australia. He has held numerous executive appointments in his long and successful career, including as managing director of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation; chairman of the Australian Football Association,and chief executive and director of the State Rail Authority.

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