Meaning: The quote "Beef also was difficult to be procured and exceedingly poor; the price nearly sixpence farthing per pound" by William Bligh, a soldier, likely refers to a historical context where beef was scarce and of low quality. This quote may have been derived from Bligh's personal experience or observations during a time when beef was not easily obtainable and was of inferior quality, likely due to various factors such as scarcity, economic conditions, or wartime constraints.

In the context of the quote, the mention of beef being "difficult to be procured" indicates that obtaining beef was a challenging task. This could have been due to factors such as limited availability, high demand, or restrictions on beef production or trade. The difficulties in procuring beef might have been a result of specific historical events or circumstances, such as wartime rationing, economic hardships, or logistical challenges in the supply chain.

Furthermore, the description of beef as "exceedingly poor" suggests that the quality of available beef was significantly below standard. This could have been due to various factors such as malnourished livestock, inadequate processing or storage facilities, or a lack of access to high-quality meat sources. Additionally, the phrase "the price nearly sixpence farthing per pound" provides insight into the economic aspect of the situation, indicating the cost of beef during the time period referenced in the quote.

William Bligh, the author of the quote, was a British naval officer and colonial governor known for his involvement in the infamous mutiny on the HMS Bounty in 1789. Bligh's career spanned a tumultuous period in maritime history, and his experiences would have exposed him to various challenges related to logistics, supplies, and provisions during sea voyages and military campaigns. It's possible that Bligh's observations on the scarcity and poor quality of beef were informed by his experiences in the Royal Navy or other military contexts where access to quality provisions was crucial for the well-being of the crew and the success of missions.

The historical significance of the quote lies in its reflection of the challenges and hardships faced in procuring essential food items, such as beef, during specific periods in history. This could include times of war, economic instability, or other circumstances that impacted the availability and quality of food supplies. Understanding the difficulties in procuring and obtaining quality beef provides valuable insights into the broader historical, economic, and social contexts of the time, shedding light on the daily struggles and realities faced by individuals and communities.

In conclusion, William Bligh's quote about the scarcity and poor quality of beef offers a glimpse into the challenges and hardships associated with procuring essential food items during specific historical periods. The quote underscores the economic, logistical, and social factors that influenced the availability and quality of beef, providing valuable historical insights into the struggles and realities of past societies. Bligh's firsthand observations as a soldier and naval officer contribute to our understanding of the historical context in which this quote is situated, highlighting the impact of scarcity and poor quality provisions on individuals and communities.