Why did Britain send prisoners from its jails to New South Wales?

The transportation of prisoners from Britain to New South Wales was motivated by a number of factors:

1. Overcrowding in British prisons: During the 18th century, British prisons were severely overcrowded and unsanitary. The transportation of prisoners to New South Wales helped to alleviate this problem by reducing the number of prisoners in British jails.

2. Desire for cheap labor in the colony: The British government also saw the transportation of prisoners as a way to provide cheap labor for the new colony of New South Wales. The prisoners were put to work on a variety of projects, including building roads, bridges, and public buildings.

3. Belief in the benefits of hard labor: Many people in Britain believed that hard labor was a good way to reform criminals. They argued that the harsh conditions of life in New South Wales would deter prisoners from committing further crimes and that they would eventually become productive members of society.

The transportation of prisoners to New South Wales continued until 1868. During this time, over 160,000 prisoners were transported to the colony. Many of these prisoners went on to become successful settlers in New South Wales, while others died or were executed for their crimes.