Violent conflict in Central Australia following the opening of the Overland Telegraph in 1871 and the expansion of pastoral activities; most stock arrived 1876 -1884 and this was the period of most cattle spearing and reprisals; Native Police headquarters established at Alice Springs in 1885 in response to conflict; introduced diseases and sexual relationships between white men and Aboriginal women; changes following Willshires arrest in 1891, arrival of white women, depression and drought marked the end of conflict
Notes
Fifth Eric Johnston lecture delivered at the State Library of the Northern Territory on 9th November 1990