Emancipists
Nearly all of the colony's shopkeepers and small traders were ex-convicts, some having started their careers while still in bondage. Some amassed fortunes equalling or exceeding those of the wealthiest free immigrants. Macquarie granted many opportunities to convicts, and his policy of accepting emancipists back into society was a hallmark of his administration. By the early 1820s emancipists held more than half the wealth of the colony and were masters of half the convicts. They owned land, fine houses, livestock and carriages, and even became magistrates.
By 1821 ex-convicts and their children were the largest group of free citizens - some 7556 adults and 5859 children, making up almost 85 per cent of the free population. Proud of their success and new social standing, they looked forward to passing their wealth and 'retrieved character' to their children.
By 1821 ex-convicts and their children were the largest group of free citizens - some 7556 adults and 5859 children, making up almost 85 per cent of the free population. Proud of their success and new social standing, they looked forward to passing their wealth and 'retrieved character' to their children.