The journey into Empire continues as we look at Tasmania, known as Van Diemen’s Land. Here the European settlers, the indigenous people, the convict system, the bush rangers, the lure of food, the battle for land, resulted in war, conquest and genocide. The birth pang of a new world was one of agony, yet the future of a unique culture and the amazing beauty of the island were in stark contrast to the declared British ambition of making it the ultimate penal hell. Join me for the complex and painful settlement of Tasmania, and its incorporation into the Empire.

This episode covers

Guest promo and thank you’s.

The brief history of Tasmania and the amazing geograph and ecosystem.

Settlement and strategic necessity – keeping the French out.

First contact goes wrong – the Risdon Cove Massacre.

Mad Tom loves a drink.

Governor Sorrell vs the outlaws.

The sad death of the Tasmanian Whisky Industry – murdered in 1839

The Black War begins – the stage is set for genocide.

Tools of the trade – muskets & raiding.

A terrible place for a soldier – why colonial Van Diemen’s Land was feared.

What was left after? A land of possibilities.

The forgotten – listening to the descendants.

Thanks for your listening. I hope you enjoy. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes, it takes less time than making a coffee. If you want to support the show on patreon, just click here, or you can go to Patreon and search for age of victoria podcast or my name.

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