The first man hanged in Australia lost his life for stealing food. Rough justice was the order of the day, and even minor offences were punished by death. Over almost two centuries, some 1700 men and women were sent to the gallows in Australia.
Noose draws on court records and newspaper reports to paint a vivid picture of how people came to be found guilty of capital crimes. It uncovers injustices and traces the rising chorus of dissent that eventually saw hanging abolished.
Anyone interested in Australia's social and criminal history will enjoy these gripping, chilling tales.