The primary reason for the colonization of Australia by the British was to establish a penal colony. Following the American War of Independence, Britain lost access to its American colonies, which had previously served as penal destinations. In 1788, the First Fleet arrived at Botany Bay, New South Wales, to establish a settlement for transporting convicts. This decision was influenced by overcrowded prisons in Britain and the desire for new lands for agricultural production. Over time, Australia evolved from a penal colony into a prosperous settlement, leading to increased immigration and the development of distinct Australian culture, but also significant impact on Indigenous populations.