Convict crisis
Cape Colony protest / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Convict crisis, also known as the "Anti-convict demonstrations" or "Anti-convict agitation" or "Cape Town anti-convict petition" was a period of civil unrest and protesting, lasting from 4 July 1849 to February 1850, in the Cape Colony. It was caused by the prospect of the British authorities making the Cape Colony a penal colony and was triggered by the arrival off the coast of Cape Town of a ship, The Neptune, carrying 288 ticket-of-leave convicts from Ireland.[2][3] The event was important in forming a distinct political identity in the Cape and strengthening the movement for self government.[4][5]
Quick Facts Date, Location ...
Convict crisis | |
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Date | 4 July 1849 - February 1850 |
Location | Cape Town and surrounding coast of the Cape Colony |
Caused by | Prospect of convict colonisation Official indifference to public opinion Arrival of The Neptune |
Goals | Prevent the landing of convicts on board The Neptune Prevent the Cape from being added as a deportation destination for convicts |
Methods | |
Resulted in | Convicts prevented from landing Cape not listed as a destination for convicts Strengthening of the movement for self government |
Lead figures | |
Home Secretary Sir George Grey |
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