Why did settlers come to Australia and the Pacific islands?

          The British expanded their colonies all over the world in search of natural resources and wealth. Australia was no exception.

          The British came to Australia and the Pacific islands to exploit the mineral wealth of these countries. Nauru was mined for phosphate while some other islands had nickel and bauxite. Many islands were fertile and were utilized for plantations, especially sugarcane.

          Many English convicts were sent to some of these islands including Australia and New Zealand as punishment for their crimes. To survive, these people had to struggle with the harsh weather, difficult terrains and the natives.

         The continent of Australia now consists of fourteen countries spread across the Pacific Ocean. Australia, New Zealand and thousands of tiny islands are collectively known as Oceania. Today, many of these islands are bustling tourist destinations.

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