Arra-Maida facts for kids
Arra-Maïda was an Aboriginal woman from Tasmania. She met members of a French expedition in January 1802. This meeting happened on the shores of Bruny Island. The expedition was led by Nicolas Baudin.
Arra-Maïda was with a group of women. They allowed French scientists to observe them. These scientists included Jérôme Bellefin, François Heirisson, and François Péron. Péron was also an artist. We know about Arra-Maïda because of a painting Péron made of her. This painting was published in 1807. It appeared in his book, A Voyage of Discovery to the Southern Hemisphere. The book also included reports about her actions and how she behaved.
Who Was Arra-Maïda?
Arra-Maïda was an important Indigenous woman. She lived in Tasmania a long time ago. Her meeting with the French explorers is a key historical event. It gives us a rare glimpse into the lives of Aboriginal Tasmanians at that time.
The Baudin Expedition
The French expedition was led by Captain Nicolas Baudin. It was a scientific journey to Australia. The expedition aimed to explore and map the coastlines. They also wanted to study the plants, animals, and people they met.
The meeting with Arra-Maïda happened in January 1802. It took place on Bruny Island, off the coast of Tasmania. This island is known for its beautiful natural areas.
Several French scientists were part of this encounter. Jérôme Bellefin and François Heirisson were among them. François Péron was also there. He was a naturalist and an artist.
How Do We Know About Her?
Our knowledge of Arra-Maïda comes mainly from François Péron. He documented his observations. He also created a painting of her. This painting is a valuable historical record.
Péron's painting was published in 1807. It was part of his detailed book. The book described the discoveries made during the expedition. It included information about the people they encountered.
The book's full title was Voyage de découvertes aux terres australes. This translates to A Voyage of Discovery to the Southern Hemisphere. It shared reports about Arra-Maïda's behavior. These reports help us understand her and her community better.
