Episode 017 - The Rum Rebellion (1808)

The Rum Rebellion of 1808 was a significant and dramatic episode in Australia's early colonial history. It was a military coup that took place in New South Wales, triggered by tensions between Governor William Bligh and the colony's powerful military officers and free settlers, especially the "Rum Corps"—a group of soldiers who had substantial control over the colony’s rum trade. Bligh, appointed as governor by the British government, attempted to curb the rum trade, which had become a key part of the colony's economy. He also clashed with the New South Wales Corps, which had military and economic influence, leading to a standoff between the two parties.

Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into the dramatic events of the Rum Rebellion, exploring the power struggles, the role of the Rum Corps, and the lasting impact of this bold action on early Australian governance.

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Sources cited: 

• Evatt, H. V. 1938. Rum Rebellion. Sydney: Angus & Robertson.
• Ellis, M. H. 1955. John Macarthur. Sydney: Angus & Robertson.
• Bartram, J. 1811. Proceedings of a General Court-Martial, held at Chelsea Hospital. London: Sherwood, Neely & Jones.
• The Sydney Morning Herald. 2008. "Captain Bligh's other mutiny." January 20. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.smh.com.au/national/captain- blighs-other-mutiny-20080120-gdrxd6.html.

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