The First Fleet

Shortly after the discovery of Australia, the white people started to immigrate. The first group of people arrived at Australia with a fleet of 11 ships that transported around 1000 people, more than 700 of whom were prisoners. The fleet arrived at today's Port Jackson on January 26th, 1788. Today, this day is being celebrated as Australia Day and it is public holiday.

Although the first immigrants were planning to start up a colony in Australia, they did not have any relevant experience. Nor they had any knowledge about the agricultural suitibility of the land. Therefore, they had a pretty hard time for the first year. They discovered that the land was unsuitable for farming. They did not know anything about the climate and nature of the island either. The second fleet, arrived in 1790, brought sufficient food as well. By time, the population increased and the cities started to be founded. Where the first fleet stepped on the island is today's beautiful harbour city, Sydney.