The Life and Times of Sir George Grey, K.C.B.

William Lee Rees surveys the remarkable career of Sir George Grey, the 11th premier of New Zealand.

William Lee Rees (Author), Lily Rees (Author)

9781108039505, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 24 November 2011

314 pages, 1 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 1.8 cm, 0.4 kg

Published in 1892, this two-volume biography chronicles the remarkable life and career of Sir George Grey (1812–98), the 11th premier of New Zealand. William Lee Rees (1836–1912), lawyer, politician and well-known supporter of Grey, co-wrote this work with his daughter Lily, and the books outline how Grey became arguably the most influential figure during the European settlement of New Zealand in the nineteenth century. The volumes proceed chronologically and are organised by the main events in Grey's life. Volume 1 begins with Grey's upbringing and early years, and describes his first voyage to Western Australia, his first government of New Zealand and his time as governor of Cape Colony. In addition to recounting the incidents, adventures and achievements of Grey's life, Rees also conveys Grey's personal principles and aspirations, giving the reader an insight into the character of this colonial governor and servant of the empire.

Introduction
Book I. Birth and Early Years, 1812–40: 1. Life's commencement
2. First commission and early service in Scotland and Ireland
3. Appointment to conduct explorations in Western Australia
4. First outward voyage. Forecasts of future life
5. First exploration
6. Second exploration
7. Grey resident at King George's Sound. Method of dealing with native races
Book II. Government of South Australia, 1841–5: 8. Unhappy position of Colony. Change effected by Grey
9. The summons to New Zealand
10. Review of Grey's life in Australia. Correspondence and scientific pursuits
Book III. First Government of New Zealand, 1845–54: 11. Grey's arrival at Auckland. Sketch of previous history of the Colony
12. Speedy and triumphant conclusion of the Maori War
13. Short history of the New Zealand Company
14. Maori policy. Proposed federation of the Pacific Islands
15. New Zealand constitution of 1846
16. The Despatch of July, 1849
17. Land regulations and constitution of 1852
18. Constitution for the Church of England
19. Karaitiana and Hapuku
20. Grey's departure from New Zealand. Feelings of both races
21. Sir George Grey's vindication. Honours at Oxford
Book IV. First Governorship of Cape Colony, 1854–9: 22. Sketch of previous South African history
23. The Governor and Mr Shepstone's proposed kingdom
24. Subjugation of Kafir chiefs and witch doctors
25. The Grey Hospital
26. The Kafir prophetess and the 'wonderful prophecy'
27. The Indian Mutiny and the China army
28. The German Legion
29. The Governor recalled
30. Dismay of South Africa.

Subject Areas: Australasian & Pacific history [HBJM]