First settlements in Western Australia 1826

Question 1

In relation to the French, why did Britain settle in Western Australia?

Answer 1

To forestall moves by the French, because it’d be a useful trading station with China, India and the islands in the north

Question 2

What year was the Swan River Company established, and what did they undertake?

Answer 2

1828, undertook to send 10,000 free settlers to Western Australia in exchange for large land grants - Settlers were given 40 acres for every £3 they had in assets.

Question 3

In what year did the first settlers in Western Australia arrive at Swan River?

Answer 3

1829

Question 4

By 1832, how many had settled in Western Australia, and what does this demonstrate?

Answer 4

Only 1,500 had settled, but this demonstrates Britain’s changing attitudes towards Australia - from a prison to potential.