The 19 Crimes That Could Get You Sent to Australia
In the annals of history, Australia stands out as a curious case of a country founded on the backs of convicts. But what were the crimes that earned these unfortunate souls a one-way ticket to the distant shores of the penal colony? Let’s delve into the 19 categories of offenses that made the British Crown say, “Down Under you go!”
A Catalog of Crimes
- Treason: High crimes against the sovereign or the state, such as plotting against the monarchy or inciting rebellion.
- Murder: The unlawful killing of another human being.
- Attempted Murder: An unsuccessful attempt to kill another person.
- Manslaughter: The unlawful killing of another person without malice aforethought.
- Rape: The sexual assault of a person without consent.
- Sodomy: Sexual relations between two men, considered a grave offense in the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Burglary: Breaking into a building with intent to steal property.
- Robbery: Stealing property from a person, often involving force or intimidation.
- Arson: Setting fire to property with malicious intent.
- Forgery: Creating false documents or signatures to deceive others.
- Perjury: Lying under oath in a court of law.
- Counterfeiting: Producing fake currency or documents.
- Piracy: Attacking and robbing ships at sea.
- Mutiny: Open revolt against a superior officer in the military or navy.
- Bigamy: Marrying a second time while still legally married to another person.
- Horse Stealing: Theft of horses, a prized possession in 18th-century England.
- Sheep Stealing: Similar to horse stealing, but involving livestock.
- Cattle Stealing: Theft of cattle, a major form of economic activity in rural England.
- Fraud: Intentionally deceiving others for personal gain.
A Deeper Dive
The list of crimes that could result in transportation to Australia was far-reaching, reflecting the social and economic conditions of the era. Treason and murder were obviously considered serious offenses, but the inclusion of crimes such as forgery, counterfeiting, and perjury suggests that the British government was also concerned with preventing economic disruption and protecting the integrity of the legal system.
Interestingly, some of the crimes on the list, such as sodomy and bigamy, would now be considered minor offenses or even legal in many societies. This reflects the changing social attitudes and legal frameworks over time. However, the severity with which these crimes were punished in the 18th and 19th centuries underscores the conservative values and strict social order of the time.
Modern Perspectives
While the 19 crimes that could get you sent to Australia are a relic of the past, they serve as a reminder of the evolution of crime and punishment, as well as the social and economic factors that shape our laws. Today, most developed countries have moved away from the practice of transporting convicts to distant lands, instead opting for more humane and progressive forms of punishment.
Tips and Expert Advice
How to Avoid Getting Sent to Australia
- Stay away from major crimes: Obviously, committing murder, rape, or arson is not a good idea.
- Be honest and avoid deception: Lying under oath or creating false documents can land you in hot water.
- Respect the law: Breaking into buildings, stealing property, or engaging in fraud are all serious crimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Were all the convicts sent to Australia guilty of serious crimes?
A: No, some convicts were guilty of minor offenses, such as theft or drunkenness.
Q: How long did convicts typically serve in Australia?
A: The length of the sentence varied, but most convicts served around 7-14 years.
Q: Did any of the convicts ever return to England?
A: Yes, some convicts were pardoned and allowed to return home, while others escaped or had their sentences commuted.
Conclusion
The 19 crimes that could get you sent to Australia provide a glimpse into the past and the ways in which societies have evolved their approach to crime and punishment. While some of these offenses may seem tame by today’s standards, they were serious matters in the 18th and 19th centuries. Understanding the motivations and circumstances behind these crimes can help us appreciate the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining order and stability in a rapidly changing world.
Are you curious about the fate of the convicts who were sent to Australia? Stay tuned for our next article, where we will explore the hardships, successes, and legacies of these individuals in the harsh and unforgiving land of Down Under.
