Setting the Context
In 1788, the British claimed sovereignty over the eastern half of the Australian continent and established a penal colony, now known as Sydney, to house their convicts. The founding of this colony marked the beginning of the European colonization of Australia, and with it came a system of governance that was intended to maintain order and control over the new territory. This article will explore the system of governance in Australia in 1788, examining the various institutions and practices that were established by the British Empire to exert their control over the colony.
The British Empire’s Control
The British Empire exercised complete control over the colony of New South Wales, with the governor acting as the representative of the Crown. This system of governance was based on the principles of absolutism, with the governor wielding significant power over the colony and its inhabitants. The governor was also responsible for establishing the various institutions and practices that would govern the colony, including the Executive Council, the legal system, and the military.
The Governor and the Executive Council
The governor of New South Wales held absolute power over the colony and its inhabitants. He was responsible for the establishment and administration of the colony’s various institutions, including the Executive Council. The Executive Council was comprised of a group of advisors appointed by the governor to assist him in the governance of the colony. The council had no legislative or constitutional power, but its members were responsible for advising the governor on various matters related to the administration of the colony.
The Legal System: British Law and Courts
The legal system in 1788 was based on British law and courts. The governor was the supreme judge of the colony, and he was responsible for establishing the various courts and appointing the judges. The legal system was also responsible for maintaining order and discipline within the colony, with punishments ranging from fines and imprisonment to flogging and transportation.
The Role of the Military
The military played a significant role in maintaining order and control within the colony. The governor was responsible for establishing the various military units within the colony and appointing the officers. The military was also responsible for maintaining the peace, suppressing rebellions, and defending the colony against external threats.
The Formation of the Legislative Council
In 1824, the British Empire established the Legislative Council, which was responsible for passing laws and regulations for the colony. The council was comprised of appointed members, with the governor holding the power to appoint and dismiss council members. The council had limited powers, and its primary function was to advise the governor on matters related to the governance of the colony.
The First Acts and Regulations
The first acts and regulations established by the British Empire were aimed at maintaining order and control within the colony. These acts and regulations included the Proclamation of Martial Law, which gave the military the power to enforce order and discipline within the colony. Other acts and regulations focused on the administration of justice, the management of the colony’s finances, and the regulation of trade.
The Treatment of Indigenous Australians
The system of governance established by the British Empire had a significant impact on the Indigenous Australians living in the area. The British viewed Indigenous Australians as primitive and uncivilized, and they implemented policies that were aimed at controlling and assimilating them into European society. These policies included forced removals, the establishment of missions, and the restriction of Indigenous Australians’ movements.
The Impact of the System on the Colonists
The system of governance established by the British Empire had a significant impact on the colonists living in New South Wales. The system was characterized by authoritarianism, with the governor holding significant power over the colony and its inhabitants. The legal system was harsh, with punishments ranging from fines and imprisonment to flogging and transportation.
Criticisms of the System
The system of governance established by the British Empire was criticized for its authoritarianism and harshness. Many colonists felt that the governor held too much power, and there were frequent complaints about the legal system’s harsh punishments. There were also criticisms of the treatment of Indigenous Australians and the impact that the colonists’ settlement was having on their way of life.
Legacy of the 1788 System of Governance
The system of governance established by the British Empire in 1788 had a significant impact on the development of Australia as a nation. The legacy of this system is still felt today, with many of the institutions and practices established in 1788 still in place. The authoritarianism and harshness of the system have also been the subject of ongoing debate and criticism.
Conclusion: From 1788 to Today
The system of governance established by the British Empire in 1788 was characterized by authoritarianism, harshness, and a focus on control and order. While many of the institutions and practices established in 1788 are still in place today, there has been a significant shift towards democracy and individual rights. The legacy of the 1788 system of governance continues to shape Australia’s political and social landscape, and it remains a subject of ongoing debate and criticism.
