The Aborigines of Australia

In 1826 the author was sent on a six‑month, 1,600‑mile expedition across New South Wales to investigate the condition of the Aboriginal peoples. Living among several groups, he recorded their languages, customs and daily routines, hoping to inform colonial policy. His report also includes the political debate that followed his recommendations for reserves, policing and missionary education.

The work offers a detailed panorama of life before extensive European settlement: the variety of tribal divisions, marriage rites, funeral practices and the striking “spitting” and “encounter” tribes. It examines the puzzling origins of their language, noting similarities with Aryan roots and possible Malay contacts, while describing their reliance on hunting, the dingo and stone tools. The author also discusses population estimates, the impact of disease, and the stark contrast between the nomadic lifestyle of the mainland peoples and the island groups.

Presented in a clear, observational style, the book provides a rare snapshot of early colonial encounters, highlighting both the richness of Aboriginal culture and the challenges of understanding it through 19th‑century eyes.