A History of the Colony of Victoria
From its Discovery to its Absorption into the Commonwealth of Australia

This authoritative two-volume history by Henry Gyles Turner (1831–1920) explores the political and social development of Victoria, Australia.

Henry Gyles Turner (Author)

9781108039833, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 24 November 2011

404 pages
21.6 x 14 x 2.3 cm, 0.51 kg

The first attempt by Europeans to settle in the area that eventually became the state of Victoria, Australia, was led by Colonel David Collins in 1803. Melbourne was founded in 1835, and after the discovery of gold in 1851 became the financial centre of Australia. This authoritative two-volume history of the state's first century, published in 1904 by the banker Henry Gyles Turner (1831–1920), is based on parliamentary records and information from leading political figures with whom the author was personally acquainted. Volume 2 continues Turner's discussion of the gold rush, and covers the management of the goldfields, the imprisonment of unlicensed miners, and the miners' revolts against taxes. The book sets events in the context of the region's changing political landscape, and documents the struggle to establish an efficient government. It ends with a thorough account of Victoria's integration into the Commonwealth of Australia.

1. The goldfields and their management
2. The revolt of the diggers
3. The transition to responsible government
4. The administration of Sir Henry Barkly, 1856–63
5. An era of constitutional struggle, 1864–8
6. Political and social survey of the early seventies
7. The Berry influence, 1875–82
8. 'Peace, progress and prosperity'
9. The era of extravagance
10. Days of trial. The lean years that ended the century
11. The Commonwealth. Retrospect and prospect
Index.

Subject Areas: Australasian & Pacific history [HBJM]