A-z Of Convicts In Van Diemen's Land

(Paperback, UK ed.)

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Description

During the Industrial Revolution, crime rates grew and a penal code was established, with over 200 offences punishable by death. The alternative was deportation, often to Van Diemen's Land. Over the following 50 years, approximately 73,000 men, women and children were transported to the island (which today is known as Tasmania). Approximately 90% of the convicts were transported for theft, and most were given either seven or 14 year sentences. More serious crimes meant spending life at the outpost. This book is result of 20 years of obsessive chronlicling about the subject.

Reviews

'Simon Barnard brings Tasmania's remarkable convict story to life.' -- James Boyce, author of Van Diemen's Land 'A big, beautiful, funny, fascinating thrill-ride of convict esoterica.' -- Nick Cave 'A rich and compelling account of the lives of the men, women and children who were transported to Tasmania for crimes ranging from stealing bread to poisoning family members.' Australian Education Union Magazine 'A lively, detailed and richly illustrated account of the lives of convicts sent to Van Diemen's land.' Herald Sun 'Australian convict history is a crowded field, but Barnard's detailed and vivid illustrations breathe fresh life into it...Every school library should own the A-Z of Convicts in Van Diemen's Land...not to mention interested adults.' Australian Book Review 'Barnard's impressive craftsmanship has produced a truly handsome book design that pays loving homage to its 19th century sources...School students often complain about the dullness of Australian history. Barnard's highly entertaining book is the perfect antidote to the usual sober textbook treatment of the convict era.' Reading Time 'In a time when we, as descendants no longer wish to wash away the 'convict stain', this book is a wonderful history for as wide as possible an audience.' Tasmanian Times

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