British Colonization of Australia

Who claimed the Australian south-east coast for Britain in 1770?

English captain James Cook.

What was Britain's initial purpose for colonizing Australia?

To use it as a penal colony for convicts.

How many prisoners were sent to Australia as part of the penal colony?

150,000 prisoners.

What major events in the 1850s increased the number of free settlers in Australia?

The Gold Rush of 1851 and the growth of sheep farming.

What devastating impact did European colonization have on the Aboriginal population?

They suffered from diseases like smallpox, to which they had no immunity, leading to large numbers of deaths.

How did European colonization affect the language spoken in Australia?

The majority of Australians speak English today.

What impact did European colonization have on the religion practiced in Australia?

A large majority of Australians practice some form of Christianity, similar to the Europeans.

What is the traditional religion of the Aboriginal people?

Dreamtime.

What were some consequences faced by surviving Aboriginals after European colonization?

They were often forced off their land, discriminated against, and had limited rights.