The British established their first penal colony on the island (1788-1814) to prevent the island falling into French hands. This colony was abandoned, as it failed to be self-supporting. A second penal colony was set-up 1825 and lasted until 1855. Its purpose was one of incarceration of hardened criminals. It is said that convicts went to the gallows glad to be released from the Hell on Earth that was Norfolk Island.

In 1856, the island was resettled by Pitcairn Islanders, descendants of Tahitians and the Bounty mutineers.

Norfolk Island's most famous resident is novelist Colleen McCullough, whose works include The Thorn Birds and the Masters of Rome series.

From the CIA World Factbook 2000. Not Wikified.