1788

Delve into a captivating narrative history with our brand new paperback edition, exploring the monumental journey of the First Fleet. Written by bestselling author David Hill, this gripping account intricately weaves the historical context of Georgian England, marked by striking contrasts of elegance and destitution. The story unfolds the lives of the first European Australians, depicted as reluctant pioneers embarking on a treacherous voyage to establish a new colony under the King's government. With courage amidst hardship, they braved cramped conditions and devastating rations upon arrival at Botany Bay. This compelling book, rich in emotion and historical detail, reveals the lives of those who shaped the early Australian nation. Using real diaries, letters, and official records, Hill reconstructs the experiences of these pivotal figures and offers profound insight into their struggles and resilience. Whether you're a history enthusiast or looking to understand the beginnings of Australia, this narrative is a must-read. Get your copy now and experience a piece of history that resonates today. Enjoy FREE shipping on this item, and please allow up to 10 days for delivery. Remember, combined shipping for other products is not available with this item.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781741668001
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2009
Publisher: RANDOM HOUSE AUSTRALIA
Pages: 400


Description:
An extraordinary narrative history of the First Fleet, by the bestselling author of The Forgotten Children.

Never before or since has there been an experiment quite as bold as this. Set against the backdrop of Georgian England with its peculiar mix of elegance, prosperity, progress and squalor, the story of the First Fleet is one of courage, of short-sightedness, of tragedy but above all of extraordinary resilience. It is also, of course, the story of the very first European Australians, reluctant pioneers who travelled into the unknown - the vast majority against their will - in order to form a colony by order of the King's government. Separated from loved ones and travelling in cramped conditions for the months-long journey to Botany Bay, they suffered the most unbearable hardship on arrival on Australian land where a near-famine dictated that rations be cut to the bone. But why was the settlement of New South Wales proposed in the first place? Who were the main players in a story that changed the world and ultimately forged the Australian nation? How did the initial skirmishes with the indigenous population break out and how did the relationship turn sour so quickly? Using diaries, letters and official records, David Hill artfully reconstructs the experiences of these famous and infamous men and women of history, combining narrative skill with an eye for detail and an exceptional empathy with the people of the past.

This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.