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Story perspectives

First Fleet Arrival: A Peaceful Start Turns Violent

1/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The First Fleet arrived in New South Wales on January 26, 1788, led by Captain Arthur Phillip, with orders to protect Indigenous lives.
Initial encounters were peaceful, with no violence reported.
As the colony expanded, violence and land dispossession increased, leading to injustices against Aboriginal people.
Historian Grace Karskens notes the arrival marked the start of a city.

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Story summary

The First Fleet arrived in New South Wales on January 26, 1788, led by Captain Arthur Phillip, with orders to protect Indigenous lives.
Initial encounters were peaceful, with no violence reported.
As the colony expanded, violence and land dispossession increased, leading to injustices against Aboriginal people.
Historian Grace Karskens notes the arrival marked the start of a city.