What question did this study set out to answer?

The research examines the experiences of lascar sailors in the late 18th century and the dynamics of racial hierarchies during crises.

February 11, 2026

The lascars' kettle: Lascar sailors on voyages to Australia and New Zealand in the late eighteenth century

Key Points

The research examines the experiences of lascar sailors in the late 18th century and the dynamics of racial hierarchies during crises.
Analyzed three distinct sailing voyages between 1793 and 1796
Explored relationships between lascar sailors and European crew members
Investigated the contexts of cooperation during challenging scenarios
Racial hierarchies were both sustained and challenged during critical situations
Cooperation emerged as a significant factor in examining on-board dynamics
The experiences of lascars highlighted complexities in colonial maritime culture

Abstract

Abstract Between 1793 and 1796, three inter‐related sailing voyages took place around the coasts of Australia and New Zealand. On board each of these voyages were lascar sailors drawn from the Indian Ocean. This article looks at the experience of these sailors and considers how the racial hierarchies present on each of the voyages were sustained or challenged during times of crisis. In particular, it considers how co‐operation might be a productive frame through which to examine on‐board relationships between lascars and European crew and officers.

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