Tasmania became an island 10,000 years ago due to rising sea levels. European explorers came to the island in 1700s and later the island became a colony of England. About 70,000 convicts were sent to Tasmania, but only about 10k were housed at Port Arthur, a brutal prison outside Hobart. The rest of the convicts and military guards settled the island and established agriculture, leading to redemption and freedom for many individuals. 37% of the island is national parks and reserves due to its natural beauty.
