"A History of Tasmania from Its Discovery in 1642 to the Present Time by James Fenton, published in 1884, offers a detailed chronological account of Tasmania's transformation from an uncharted island to a developed British colony. The book begins with the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman's sighting of the island and proceeds through the British settlement era, focusing on key events such as the establishment of penal colonies, the exploration of the interior, and the development of agriculture and infrastructure. Fenton draws extensively on historical documents, government records, and personal experience, providing a comprehensive overview of the island's political, social, and economic evolution.
A significant portion of the book also addresses the complex and tragic interactions between European settlers and the Indigenous Tasmanians, highlighting the conflict and displacement that accompanied colonization. Fenton does not shy away from the darker aspects of the island's past, though his 19th-century perspective reflects the attitudes of his time. As both a historian and a settler, he brings an insider's familiarity to the narrative, particularly in his descriptions of colonial life and land development. The book remains an important early work in Tasmanian historiography, valued for its firsthand insights and its role in documenting the formative stages of Tasmania's modern identity."
Probable 1950's rebind with new cloth boards, spine and endpapers. No inscriptions. Lacks Map. Includes 4 colour portraits of Aborigines in chromo-lithography + 1 B&W of James Smith (5 Plates Total). Binding is strong with no loose pages. A decent copy in good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
Size 22.5cm x 15cm x 3.5cm - 462 Pages
