Proclamation as a separate colony Tasmania

a convict ploughing team breaking new ground @ farm @ port arthur.

the legislative council of van diemen s land drafted new constitution passed in 1854. following year privy council approved colony changing name van diemen s land tasmania , , in 1856 newly elected bicameral parliament sat first time, establishing tasmania self-governing colony of british empire.

the colony suffered economic fluctuations, part prosperous, experiencing steady growth. few external threats , strong trade links empire, tasmania enjoyed many fruitful periods in late 19th century, becoming world-centre of shipbuilding. raised local defence force played significant role in second boer war in south africa, , tasmanian soldiers in conflict won first 2 victoria crosses awarded australians.

in 1901 colony of tasmania united 5 other australian colonies form commonwealth of australia. tasmanians voted in favour of federation largest majority of australian colonies.