by Emily Ross
Welcome back, history lovers!
Today we’re going on a deep dive into the conditions that sowed the seeds of rebellion in Virginia, setting the stage for the American Revolution. Buckle up, because this one’s a doozy!
Ok. Now the goods.
Let's leap right into the wild story of the final straw that drove the Virginia colonists to mutiny against the governor in early Virginia, the governor's return, and his retaliation against any who had wronged him.
Contents
Setting the Stage: The Governorship of John Harvey
In the previous episode, we left off discussing Virginia's new governor, John Harvey, and the terrible choices he made with his considerable power. Harvey controlled the laws, the government, and the courts, abusing his power to the extent that the colonists and even his own council began a policy of obstruction against him. They weren’t quite in full-blown rebellion, but they were making it very clear that they opposed his actions.
Governor Harvey’s reign was marked by his assumption that he’d have the people’s support, especially from his council. Reality proved quite the opposite. Despite the resistance, Harvey tried to reason with the colonists, asserting that defying him meant defying the king.
However, the colonists saw things differently. They believed Governor Harvey was the one resisting the king’s promise of fair laws and a good life. They questioned his legitimacy and motives.
Begging For More Power: Harvey's Misery
Faced with obstruction, Governor Harvey begged the English crown for more power, complaining about his misery in Virginia. But while Harvey was begging, the colonists were also writing letters to England, detailing the governor’s abuses.
In a bid to reconcile, the English council urged both parties to work together. The colonists reluctantly agreed to peace, but this uneasy truce was short-lived. The real conflict was about to ignite.
Religious Tensions and the Birth of Maryland
The backdrop of religious strife in England spilled over into the colonies. England was predominantly Protestant, fiercely oppressing Catholics. This tension gave rise to Maryland, the only colony founded by Catholics for Catholics, right on Virginia’s doorstep.
Enter Lord Baltimore, who sailed to Virginia with a ship full of Catholic settlers. The Virginians greeted them with predictable hostility, igniting further tensions.
Virginia’s Furious Resistance
Despite the king’s orders, the Virginia colonists were unwilling to aid Maryland’s Catholics, choosing instead to destroy their own property rather than help. Governor Harvey, bound by his duty to the crown, sent supplies to Maryland, even though it enraged the Virginian colonists.
The resentment escalated. Virginians viewed Harvey as a traitor. The tensions eventually led to mini-wars between the two colonies. Virginia dreamed of driving out the Catholics and reclaiming their land.
The Final Straws: A Chaotic Showdown
Governor Harvey’s actions continued to stoke the fire. When he seized a shipbuilder without permission from his master, the Governor’s Council demanded answers. Things turned violent as the governor and his council clashed. Harvey even knocked out a council member’s teeth during one heated exchange.
In 1635, the council’s patience ran out. After a series of secret meetings and plotting, they decided to force Harvey out. When Harvey blocked the colony’s communication with the king about tobacco trade disputes, the council had enough.
At a subsequent meeting, Governor Harvey demanded loyalty and answers, only to be met with resistance. The council members turned the tables, declaring Harvey under arrest for treason. Armed men surrounded the governor, forcing him to listen to the grievances laid against him.
Exile and Vengeful Return
Harvey was eventually sent back to England to answer for his actions but returned with the king’s backing, setting up a temporary capital in Elizabeth City. Harvey's return marked a vengeful period, punishing those who opposed him. He plundered houses, confiscated property, and exerted cruel revenge on his enemies.
However, Harvey’s reign of terror was short-lived. The English council finally ordered his removal, reinstating Francis Wyatt as governor. Francis Wyatt enjoyed widespread support, and under his governorship, the colonists saw a brief period of relief.
Conclusion: Prelude to Revolution
Years later, Governor Harvey’s bitter end set a precedent. His downfall highlighted the colonists' increasing desire for autonomy and fair governance, contributing to the burgeoning revolutionary sentiment in Virginia.
Thanks for tuning in to Why Wars Happened. Join us next week as we discuss Governor Berkeley’s early years and Virginia’s stance on the English Civil War.
See you next week!
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