In an act of civil disobedience, Cranky Sam Poo punches his horse
Although now regarded as Australia’s favourite Chinese bushranger, early in his career Cranky Sam Poo was often subjected to racism and injustice. When Governor John Young announced an annual licensing fee for bushrangers in 1861, the young Sam Poo staged a daring protest.
For six straight hours, Poo stood in Roberston Park and repeatedly punched his horse, Rowdy, in the face, sending a clear message to the authorities. In a win for the little man, a collection of local businessmen and horse trainers agreed to not only pay Sam Poo’s licence but also to lend him a horse, whilst trusty Rowdy recovered.
Although now regarded as Australia’s favourite Chinese bushranger, early in his career Cranky Sam Poo was often subjected to racism and injustice. When Governor John Young announced an annual licensing fee for bushrangers in 1861, the young Sam Poo staged a daring protest.
For six straight hours, Poo stood in Roberston Park and repeatedly punched his horse, Rowdy, in the face, sending a clear message to the authorities. In a win for the little man, a collection of local businessmen and horse trainers agreed to not only pay Sam Poo’s licence but also to lend him a horse, whilst trusty Rowdy recovered.