Arthur Phillip was an admiral and the first governor of New South Wales, Australia. He is best known for leading the First Fleet of convicts from Britain to establish a penal colony in Australia. However, despite his significant achievements, there has been much speculation about the circumstances surrounding his death. In this article, we will explore the various theories about how Arthur Phillip died.
Early Life and Career
Arthur Phillip was born in London in 1738. He joined the Royal Navy at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks. By the time he was 34, he had been appointed as captain of his own ship, the HMS Stirling Castle. In 1774, he was given command of the HMS Europa and sent to the Caribbean to protect British interests in the region.
Phillip's experience in the Caribbean would prove valuable when he was chosen to lead the First Fleet to Australia in 1788. His knowledge of the region and its climate helped to ensure the safe arrival of the fleet and the successful establishment of the colony.
Theories about Phillip's Death
Despite his many achievements, Arthur Phillip's death remains shrouded in mystery. There are several theories about how he died, but none have been conclusively proven.
Alcoholism
One theory is that Arthur Phillip died from alcoholism. He was known to enjoy a drink, and it is believed that he may have been suffering from liver damage as a result. Some reports suggest that he was often seen drunk in public and that his health had been deteriorating for some time before his death.
Pneumonia
Another theory is that Phillip died from pneumonia. This was a common cause of death in the 18th century, particularly among older people like Phillip. There are reports that he had been suffering from a cold or flu-like symptoms in the weeks leading up to his death.
Suicide
There are also some suggestions that Arthur Phillip may have taken his own life. This theory is based on a letter that he wrote to his superiors in which he expressed his frustration with the colony and his desire to return to England. Some have suggested that this letter was evidence of depression and that it may have led to his suicide.
Heart Attack
Finally, it is possible that Arthur Phillip died from a heart attack. This theory is supported by reports that he had been suffering from chest pains and shortness of breath in the weeks leading up to his death. However, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that this was the cause of death.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several theories about how Arthur Phillip died, but none have been proven definitively. It is possible that his death was a result of alcoholism, pneumonia, suicide, or a heart attack. Whatever the cause, Phillip's legacy as the first governor of New South Wales and the founder of modern Australia remains significant to this day.
