1941 Shadow Over Tasmania by Bev C. Smith Australian Convict History Book 1st Ed

"Shadow Over Tasmania delves into the dark and often overlooked history of Tasmania's convict past. The book examines the transportation of British convicts to Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania) during the 19th century, shedding light on the brutal conditions, harsh punishments, and societal stigma faced by those who were exiled. West challenges the glorified narratives of colonial settlement, instead presenting a raw account of how the penal system shaped Tasmania's early society. He explores the mistreatment of prisoners, the corruption among authorities, and the long-lasting impact of convictism on Tasmania's cultural identity.

The book also highlights the resilience of former convicts who, despite their harsh beginnings, contributed to the development of Tasmania. West discusses how the colony gradually moved away from its convict past, transforming into a more structured society while still grappling with the lingering shame of its origins. Through historical records and personal accounts, Shadow Over Tasmania argues that the true history of the island must be acknowledged rather than erased. The book serves as both a historical exposé and a call for recognition of the struggles endured by convicts, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of Tasmania's colonial history.

Scarce 1st edition copy of this classic work on Tasmanian Convicts. Heavy wear and some staining to covers and spine. Some water staining as shown. Carries some date stamps all from 1944. No loose pages with all illustrations present. Please study photos to further understand condition.

Size 18.5cm x 12.5cm x 0.75cm - 150 Pages