William Berkeley (governor)

William Berkeley (1605 – July 9, 1677) was a colonial governor of Virginia, serving two distinct terms: from 1641 to 1652 and again from 1660 to 1677. He was appointed by King Charles I and later re-appointed after the Restoration. His tenure was marked by policies that favored large landowners, a controversial relationship with Native Americans, and ultimately, Bacon's Rebellion.

Berkeley arrived in Virginia with instructions to diversify the colony's economy and encourage manufacturing. He initially fostered a period of prosperity, encouraging agricultural innovation and fortifying the colony against Indian raids. He also promoted trade and exploration. He was knighted in 1639, before his appointment to Virginia.

However, Berkeley's later years as governor were characterized by increasing authoritarianism and discontent. He maintained a close circle of wealthy planters who controlled the House of Burgesses, the colonial legislature. This created a growing disparity in wealth and power, leaving many smaller farmers and indentured servants disenfranchised and vulnerable to Indian attacks on the frontier.

His refusal to authorize a full-scale military response to Native American raids triggered Bacon's Rebellion in 1676. Nathaniel Bacon, a wealthy planter, led a militia against Native American tribes, defying Berkeley's authority. Bacon's forces eventually burned Jamestown, forcing Berkeley to flee. After Bacon's death, Berkeley returned to power and harshly suppressed the rebellion, executing many of Bacon's followers.

King Charles II was reportedly displeased by Berkeley's harsh methods, and recalled him to England. Berkeley died shortly after his arrival in London, before he could meet with the king. He remains a controversial figure in Virginian history, seen by some as a capable administrator during his early years and by others as a symbol of aristocratic privilege and oppressive governance.