George Robinson
George Robinson
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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George Augustus Robinson was commonly known as the "Collector" due to his role in the British government's attempt to round up and relocate Indigenous Australians during the 19th century.
Birth and Death Dates
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Robinson was born on June 14, 1798, at Bristol, England. He passed away on February 26, 1865.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Robinson held British nationality, and his profession varied over the years. Initially, he served as a merchant in Bristol before turning to naval service during the Napoleonic Wars. Later, he became involved in colonial administration, serving in various capacities throughout his life.
Early Life and Background
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Robinson's early life was marked by a desire for adventure and financial security. He began working at sea at a young age, eventually rising through the ranks to become a naval officer. His experiences during this period would later influence his decision to pursue a career in colonial administration.
Major Accomplishments
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In 1839, Robinson was appointed as the Chief Protector of Aborigines for the British government. This role led him to Tasmania (then known as Van Diemen's Land), where he attempted to negotiate with and round up Indigenous people to relocate them to a reserve. His efforts ultimately resulted in the forced removal of thousands of Aboriginal Tasmanians.
Notable Works or Actions
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Robinson is perhaps most notable for his role in the British government's attempts to control and "civilize" Indigenous Australians. His writings and reports from this period provide valuable insights into the attitudes and policies of the time. In addition, he was involved in various business ventures, including trading posts and shipping companies.
Impact and Legacy
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Robinson's legacy is complex and multifaceted. While his efforts aimed to "protect" Indigenous Australians, they were largely driven by a paternalistic desire to assimilate them into European culture. His policies contributed significantly to the decline of Aboriginal populations in Tasmania, leading many to view him as a symbol of colonial oppression.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Despite (or perhaps because of) his involvement in problematic policies, Robinson remains a significant figure in Australian history. His writings and actions offer a window into the attitudes and motivations of British colonizers during this period. As such, he is often quoted or referenced by scholars, historians, and those interested in understanding the complexities of colonialism.
In conclusion, George Robinson's life and legacy serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges associated with colonial history. His experiences offer valuable insights into the ways in which power is exercised and maintained through language, policy, and action.
Quotes by George Robinson
You can ride around town now and see for-rent signs posted, ... I havent seen those for a long time.
In the end, trying to be perfect is the unconscious social effort to please ourselves by pleasing these others.
Rather than being taught to accept ourselves, we were trained to make ourselves socially acceptable. And whenever we fail, we suffer inside.
When we let others control us by the threat of disapproval and rejection, we give up far too much of ourselves and make it impossible for us to engage in authentic relationships.
He was standing around on the perimeter a little bit too much in the first half so we talked to him about getting him involved in the paint. That's where he's most comfortable.
Hauck said, 'If you go through very elaborate expensive repairs, it will last a little longer than if you put that money into design and construction of a new bridge,'
