This course investigates European settlement in Australia, with particular emphasis on convicts and settlers, from the decade of Cook's discovery to the advent of Federation. Major themes of this course will include the characteristics of a 'settler society', issues of race and gender on the frontier, class formation in colonial communities, and Australia's evolving place in the British Empire. We shall explore the following topics, among others: the nature and functioning of the convict system; the histories of particular convict colonies; the debate over penal transportation; the successive emigrations of British and Irish peoples; their expectations and experience as settlers in a 'new' country; the encounter with and experience of Aboriginal Australia; the growth of colonial ideas, values and institutions; and the growth of Australian national identity. We shall also consider aspects and changes of the imperial relationship, the development of white settler society and Australia's global connections.

A research essay of 3,000 words (50%), tutorial participation (10%), and either a synoptic essay of 2,000 words or a final examination (40%).

First-year courses in History to the value of twelve units, or with permission of the Convener.

Atkinson, A., The Europeans in Australia, Vols 1 & 2.

This course can be counted towards a History or Australian Studies major.