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.
Documenting Democracy Bushrangers RHSV Free Settler or Felon? SLV history The State Library of Victoria is Australia's oldest free public library and the first of Victoria's key cultural institutions. Founded in 1854 when Victoria was barely 20 years old, the Library has continued to reflect the cultural and social development of the state and its people for 150 years. slv21 - Creating the Library of the 21st Century Today people expect to get information quickly and directly, when and where they want it. History of the Library One of the key founders of the Library, Sir Redmond Barry, envisaged an antipodean treasure house that would contain 'the best of everything' and become a 'great emporium of learning and philosophy, of literature, science, and art'. About our Collections The Library first opened in 1856 with a stock of 3846 books. Building Development Designed by celebrated colonial architect Joseph Reed, the Library has been an architectural landmark for almost 150 years.
Beside the Yarra Obituaries Australia MIV Read all the latest news from the MIV more>>> See all MIV's and its Members' upcoming events! more>>> See the details of MIV's Regional Forum: We're Listening! The MIV was formed in 1998. Membership is open to groups and individuals with an interest in the MI movement, particularly in Victoria. Since its formation the MIV has: Staged the first National Mechanics' Institutes Conference in Melbourne in 2000 and published its proceedings Facilitated the publishing of the 350 page book If the Walls Could Speak: A Social History of the Mechanics' Institutes of Victoria Assisted the publication of The Libraries of the Mechanics' Institutes of Victoria Established a website Secured a round of Government grants for some of Victoria's MIs Produced two Travelling Exhibitions Remember the Mechanics?
Prahran Mechanics' Institute