The Result of Rebellion: North American Political Prisoners in van Diemen's Land

Dr. John Carter

Dr. John C. Carter is a widely published author and historian, who is
currently a Research Associate in the History and Classics Programme,
University of Tasmania.

The Result of Rebellion: North American Political Prisoners in Van Diemen's Land

It was all the result of rebellion! Between December 1837 and December
1838, there were at least 14 incidents of armed invasion from the United States into Canada. These incursions were all unsuccessful attempts to overthrow the British rule in Upper Canada.

More than 1,000 men who participated, were arrested and charged with
piratical invasion and treason. Ultimately 92 English speaking "Patriots" were transported to the penal colony of Van Diemen's Land to serve sentences there as political prisoners.

Dr. John Carter will investigate these events, their consequences and aftermath. This discussion is based on Dr. Carter's 35 years of research in Canada, the United Kingdom, United States and Australia. It will shed light on a fascinating yet often overlooked chapter in our history.

This event is part of the Fall 2016 Speaker series. Register for the Fall 2016 Event Series.