Bushrangers were outlaws in Australia during the 19th century, often operating in rural areas. They were typically former convicts who escaped from penal settlements or were individuals who turned to crime due to poverty. Bushrangers became known for robbing banks, coaches, and travelers, and they often gained a reputation as folk heroes among some communities. One of the most famous bushrangers was Ned Kelly, who became a symbol of resistance against colonial authority. Bushranging declined by the late 1800s as law enforcement improved and the government implemented stricter measures. Today, bushrangers are a significant part of Australian history and folklore.