The Notorious World of Bushranging in 19th Century Australia

Bushranging is a term used to describe the activities of outlaws or bandits who roam the countryside, preying on travelers and settlements. It was particularly common in Australia during the 19th century, when the country was still largely unsettled and the authorities were weak or non-existent in many areas. Bushrangers were often former convicts or other marginalized individuals who turned to criminal activity as a way to survive. They would typically rob travelers, steal horses and supplies, and sometimes engage in violent confrontations with the authorities or other bushrangers. The term "bushranging" is derived from the Australian slang word "bush," which refers to the rural areas where these outlaws operated.