Description

Synopsys: "Good Men and True: The Aboriginal Police of the Port Phillip District 1837-1853", written by Marie Hansen Fels, is a comprehensive exploration of the enigmatic issue of the Aboriginal Police system in the Port Phillip District during the early nineteenth century. This book attempts to shed light on the unsung heroes of Aboriginal society who were recruited into the police force. Fels details the conflicts, complexities and challenges that these men faced, juggling between the norms of colonial society and their native traditions. She paints an evocative portrait of these forgotten law enforcers by diving deep into administrative documents, personal letters, and other historical records. The book raises critical questions about power, resistance, and cross-cultural interactions during the colonial period in Australia, offering thought-provoking insights on a little-studied aspect of Australian history.

Synopsis

Title: Good Men And True: The Aboriginal Police Of The Port Phillip District 1837-1853
Author/Publisher: Marie H. Fels (Isbs Publisher Services)
Publication Year: 1988
Format: 320-page Illustrated Hardcover with Dust Jacket

Marie H. Fels’s 'Good Men And True' provides a meticulously researched, non-fiction account of a critical period in Australia's colonial past. This landmark first edition delves into the history of the Aboriginal Police force operating within the Port Phillip District, the region that would later become Victoria, between 1837 and 1853.

The book offers a comprehensive exploration of this unique and often controversial institution, examining its formation, operational methods, and the complex roles played by Aboriginal men recruited into the force. It positions the Aboriginal Police within the broader context of colonial administration, Indigenous-settler relations, and the evolving socio-political landscape of early Australia.

• The Aboriginal Police System: Detailed analysis of the establishment and functioning of the Aboriginal Police in the Port Phillip District, shedding light on its structure, duties, and impact on both colonial governance and Indigenous communities.
• Historical Context and Colonial Dynamics: Exploration of the intricate political and social environment of the Port Phillip District, illustrating the challenges and strategies of colonial power in managing Indigenous populations during the mid-19th century.
• Indigenous Perspectives and Experiences: Insights into the motivations, lives, and experiences of the Aboriginal men who served, offering a nuanced understanding of their agency and the complexities of their positions within a changing world.
• Rich Visual Documentation: Enhanced by a selection of illustrations, the book provides visual context, likely featuring archival photographs, maps, or sketches that bring the historical narrative to life.

As a first edition hardcover, this volume stands as an essential work for scholars and enthusiasts of Australian history, Indigenous studies, and the anthropology of policing. It remains a crucial reference for understanding a complex and formative chapter in the nation's colonial history.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Good condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

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