Convict transportation was a practice used primarily in the 18th and 19th centuries, where convicted criminals were sent to distant colonies as a form of punishment. This method aimed to alleviate overcrowded prisons in England and provide labor for developing territories, particularly in Australia. Convicts were often shipped on overcrowded vessels, facing harsh conditions during the journey. Upon arrival, convicts were typically assigned to work on public projects, farms, or in the growing industries of the colonies. Successful rehabilitation could lead to a ticket of leave, allowing them to live independently. This system played a significant role in shaping the early social and economic landscape of Australia.