First Europeans in Australia
Who discovered Australia? Most people think of the First Fleet that went to Botany Bay 1788, but our ideas may require rethinking, following recent research on DNA analysis, and epidemiological studies of a rare disease.
We all remember that Columbus sailed the ocean blue, and his achievement in the year 1492 is an ingrained part of our cultural baggage. One could fill a modest library with academic and popular studies of Columbus's arrival in what he thought was Asia. But what of the first European settlement in Australia? Most people think of the First Fleet that went to Botany Bay 1788, but our ideas may require rethinking, following recent research on DNA analysis, and epidemiological studies of a rare disease.
To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5.
Start my trial subscription now
If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.
Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.
