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100
40,000 BC
The first Aborigines arrive from south-east Asia. By 20,000 BC they have spread throughout the mainland and Tasmania. -
James Cook
Captain James Cook charts the east coast in his ship HM Endeavour. Cook claims it as a British possession and names eastern Australia "New South Wales". -
Second Major Settlement at Van Diemen's Land
A second major settlement is established at Van Diemen's. This is where convicts were taken when they arrived in Australia to serve their transportation sentence. -
Wool Export Begins
The first commercial batch of wool is shipped from Sydney to England. By the year 2000, 80% of the world's supply of merino wool will come from Australia. -
Australia' is Named
Governor Macquarie suggests that the name 'Australia' is used to describe the continent, rather than 'New Holland' which it was known for in the begging. Australia becomes the name used by everyone. -
2 million sheep
By this time there is only 20 million sheep because of the wool. -
Aborigines Taken into Captivity
Between 1830 and 1834, many Aborigines are persuaded to come into captivity in exchange for food, clothing and protection. They are placed on Flinders Island, in Bass Strait, where disease and isolation quickly take their toll. -
1868
The last convicts are transported to Australia. -
1901
The Commonwealth of Australia becomes a reality. -
1932
Sydney Harbour Bridge opens.
