The History of Tasmania , Volume II

"The History of Tasmania, Volume II" by John West is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume delves into the complex and tumultuous history of Tasmania, focusing particularly on the interactions and conflicts between European settlers and the Aboriginal population. It provides insights into the tragic consequences of colonization and the cultural destruction faced by the Indigenous people. At the start of the volume, West begins by recounting early European encounters with Tasmania's Aboriginal inhabitants. He describes the observations made by explorers such as Abel Tasman and Captain Cook, who noted the presence of the native population and their way of life. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that these encounters soon deepened into conflict, marked by violent confrontations and mutual distrust. The opening portions highlight the stark contrast between the initial observations of a peaceful Indigenous society and the resulting violence that would lead to devastating consequences for the Aboriginal people as colonial expansion progressed and resources were depleted. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John West emigrated from England to Van Diemen's Land in 1838 as a Colonial missionary, and became pastor of an Independent (Congregational) Chapel in Launceston's St. John's Square. He also co-founded The Examiner newspaper in 1842 and was later editor of The Sydney Morning Herald.