Anthony Trollope
South Australia and Western Australia
"South Australia and Western Australia" by Anthony Trollope is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a portion of a larger work titled “Australia and New Zealand” and provides insights into the early history and development of South Australia, contrasting it with that of Western Australia. Trollope explores the social, political, and agricultural aspects of the colonies, highlighting South Australia's unique origins that were not founded on convict labor, unlike many other regions in Australia. The opening of the text sets the stage by detailing the early exploration and settlement of South Australia, particularly focusing on Captain Sturt's expeditions in the 1820s. It recounts the distinctive challenges faced in establishing this colony amidst a backdrop of neighboring states that were largely founded as penal settlements. Trollope discusses the development of the settlement, the implementation of the Wakefield system of colonization, and issues surrounding land sales and governance. He also emphasizes the colony's unique aspirations for a philanthropic model of society, contrasting markedly with the convict-based beginnings of its counterparts, providing an intriguing perspective on the evolution of Australian society.