History of the Australian Bushrangers

"History of the Australian Bushrangers" by George Boxall is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the complex era of bushranging in Australia, examining the social and legal conditions that fostered the emergence of these outlaw groups. The narrative is rooted in the historical treatment of convicts and explores the motivations behind their descent into bushranging, shedding light on a significant period of Australian history. The opening of the text provides a foundational understanding of bushranging, highlighting its origins connected to the convict system in Australia. Boxall discusses how the harsh treatment and oppressive laws against convicts often pushed them to revolt against the system, leading many to take to the bush to escape their dire circumstances. He emphasizes that early bushrangers were often driven by desperation rather than inherent criminality and illustrates the grim realities they faced, including severe punitive measures like flogging. Boxall aims to present a comprehensive picture of bushranging and its implications for Australian society, suggesting that the bushrangers, despite their notorious actions, were products of their brutal environment.