United States History
Question of the Day
Answer & Explanation 

Bacon's Rebellion

100 years before the Declaration of Independence,
Virginians revolted against their political leaders
(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons--public domain)

Question 0110922:

Which of the following would have been mostly likely to support the 1676 revolt led by Nathaniel Bacon?

 

(A) a member of the Pamunkey Indian tribe
(B) a Virginia farmer upset with the refusal of authorities to deal harshly with Indians
(C) Governor William Berkeley
(D) a wealthy large plantation owner
(E) King Charles II

Answer:
 (B) a Virginia farmer upset with the refusal of authorities to deal harshly with Indians.

   Explanation: Nathaniel Bacon led a group of Virginia farmers and indentured servants in a series of raids against both Indians and government officials in 1676. Bacon was displeased with Governor Berkeley's relatively friendly attitude towards Indians and took action himself by attacking several Indian tribes. When Bacon demanded that Berkeley retaliate for Indian actions against settlers, the governor refused and Bacon's supporters subsequently chased Berkeley from the capital of Jamestown, which was burned to the ground. Bacon died of dysentery and the rebellion dissipated, but Virginia's wealthier citizens were alarmed at the support Bacon received from indentured servants and poor farmers. Berkeley was recalled from duty by King Charles II.


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