History Daily: Yagan – The Death of a Freedom Fighter
Hosted by Lindsay Graham | Released on July 11, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of History Daily, host Lindsay Graham delves into the life and legacy of Yagan, a prominent Noongar warrior who became a symbol of resistance against British colonial expansion in Western Australia. Through meticulous research and engaging narration, Graham paints a vivid portrait of Yagan's struggle for indigenous rights and the tragic circumstances surrounding his death.
Establishment of the Swan River Colony
August 12, 1829 marked a significant moment in Australian history as Lieutenant James Stirling led the first British expedition to Western Australia, establishing the Swan River Colony—today's Perth. Stirling, a naval officer eager to expand the British Empire, laid the foundation for what he hoped would become a thriving outpost.
“Stirling was confident he was the man for the job,” Graham narrates (05:17), highlighting the British settlers' determination to colonize what they perceived as uninhabited land, unaware of the rich culture and history of the Noongar people who had inhabited the region for over 40,000 years.
Initial Conflicts and Yagan's Call to Resistance
As the Swan River Colony expanded, British settlers began encroaching on Noongar hunting grounds, erecting fences, raising livestock, and diminishing the land available for indigenous sustenance. This displacement created tensions between the settlers and the Noongar tribe.
In December 1831, these tensions erupted when a group of Noongar hunters, including Yagan and his father Mijiguru, raided a settler's farm to steal chickens and potatoes. The confrontation turned violent when British servant Thomas Smedley shot and killed a Noongar hunter. This incident profoundly impacted Yagan, instilling in him a resolve to defend his people.
“Yagan will stand up and fight for the rights of indigenous peoples,” Graham emphasizes (05:17), underscoring Yagan's transformation into a leader committed to resistance.
First Act of Resistance
Fueled by the desire for vengeance, Yagan led a group of warriors to retaliate against the settlers. In a daring attack, they targeted the Entwistle farm, killing Aaron Entwistle. Notably, Yagan spared Entwistle's children, demonstrating a measured approach to his rebellion.
“There is no need for further bloodshed,” Graham recounts Yagan's restraint during the attack (05:17), highlighting his strategic and ethical considerations even amidst conflict. This act of violence prompted colonial authorities to place a hefty bounty on Yagan's head, labeling him a dangerous outlaw.
Capture and Exile
In October 1832, Yagan's life took a dramatic turn when he was deceived and captured. Approaching a fishing boat under the guise of seeking help, Yagan fell into a trap set by colonists. Bound and transported to Fremantle's roundhouse prison, Yagan faced a grim future.
Inside the colonial administration, a heated debate ensued over Yagan's fate. Lieutenant James Stirling, the colony's governor, initially advocated for Yagan's execution. However, British ethnographer Robert Lyon intervened fervently on Yagan's behalf.
“Yagan is not a common criminal, but rather a freedom fighter for his people,” Lyon passionately argued (19:49). His impassioned plea led Governor Stirling to spare Yagan's life, sentencing him instead to exile on Carnac Island, a remote and desolate outcrop off the coast.
Escape and Temporary Reconciliation
Yagan's time on Carnac Island was brief. On November 15, 1832, he and two other prisoners orchestrated a daring escape, stealing a small boat and fleeing back to their homeland. With the colonists unwilling to pursue him further, Yagan returned to his people, bringing a temporary reprieve to the strained relations between the Noongar and the settlers.
In January 1833, Yagan participated in a traditional aboriginal gathering, the corroboree, meeting with white settlers in Perth. This event, described by The Perth Gazette, showcased Yagan's graceful and dignified presence, symbolizing a fleeting moment of peace and mutual respect.
Return to Resistance and Death
Peace was short-lived. In April 1833, Yagan and his father led another ambush on a wagon train near Bull Creek, resulting in the deaths of two colonists. This act of defiance reignited the colonial authorities' pursuit of Yagan. Tragically, in a final confrontation with settlers William and James Keats, Yagan was killed.
“Yagan was one of the first resistance fighters to stand up for Aboriginal rights against the colonizing British,” Graham reflects (19:49), emphasizing the significance of Yagan's actions in the broader context of indigenous resistance.
Legacy and Repatriation
Following his death on July 11, 1833, Yagan's severed head was gruesomely sent to the Liverpool Museum in England, where it remained a macabre exhibit for over 150 years. In 1997, a dedicated group of Noongar activists successfully lobbied for the repatriation of Yagan's remains. On July 10, 2010, after the establishment of the Yagan Memorial Park in Western Australia, Yagan's remains were finally laid to rest, bringing closure to a dark chapter of colonial history.
Conclusion
Yagan's life and death epitomize the devastating impact of colonial expansion on indigenous populations. His relentless fight for his people's rights and his ultimate sacrifice cement his place as a freedom fighter and a poignant symbol of resistance against oppression. Through this episode, History Daily not only commemorates Yagan’s legacy but also sheds light on the enduring struggle for indigenous rights in Australia.
This episode was written and researched by Joe Viner, with executive producers Steven Walters for Airship and Pascal Hughes for Noiser. Produced by Lindsay Graham with audio editing by Derek Behrens, sound design by Misha Stanton, and music by Lindsay Graham.