Smugglers and Sailors: The Customs History of Australia 1788-1901 by David Day

Book Description

Secondhand. Good condition. Minor wear to book corners and edges. Foxing to foredges. Mark on title page. Dust jacket has wear to edges and some small tears. Dust jacket is now enclosed in protective cover. Body text and binding are still very good.

This book tells the dramatic story of European civilisation being carved onto the Australian continent, as observed through the windows of the various colonial Custom Houses.

The early customs officers were assigned to supervise trade and commerce, promote the manners and morals of their fellow pioneers and raise the all-important revenue for the colonial treasuries.

Drawing upon official papers, Smugglers and Sailors is an unblushing account of the moulding of colonial Australia, as customs officers sought to impose order on the often turbulent social and commercial landscape of the colonies. At times, some of the customs houses were scenes of disorder and dissipation themselves as officers fought against the temptations of alcohol, sex and corruption.