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ADB Home Forced Migration Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the British correctional system became severely overburdened. The population of England rose dramatically, and London soon became overcrowded. Poverty and social injustice were rife, child labour and long working hours were widespread, and living conditions were squalid and filthy. Many were unemployed, and crime was rampant. Black-eyed Sue and Sweet Poll of Plymouth taking leave of their lovers who are going to Botany Bay (Photo credit: Wikipedia) Britain’s police and penitentiary system were practically non-existent. Fortunately, the Bloody Code was put to rest when lawmakers and judges felt that the death penalty was too harsh for many crimes. Even by the standards of that day, the prison system soon was considered unacceptable treatment of convicts. Initially, convicts were transported to America; however, with the onset of the American Revolution, Britain had to look elsewhere. Two more fleets followed quickly in 1790 and 1791.

Bushrangers Free Settler or Felon? Beside the Yarra