by Emily Ross
Hey, history buffs!
Welcome back to "Why Wars Happened," your weekly podcast for understanding the chaotic and often dramatic events that led to war throughout history.
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Contents
The Calm Before the Storm
Where we last left off, the colonists had successfully ousted a deeply unpopular governor and called upon the king to send them a new one. That’s when William Berkeley entered the scene. Figuring prominently in Virginia's history, Berkeley's journey started long before he set foot in the colony.
Who Was Governor Berkeley?
Born into wealth in England, Berkeley grew up in the king’s palace, becoming part of the king's inner circle. Imagine being like a lady-in-waiting, but for the king! His life revolved around the monarch, attending hunts, banquets, and even going to war on his behalf. This deep bond and loyalty to the king shaped much of his later actions as Governor of Virginia. Berkeley’s unwavering loyalty was rooted in his lifelong service and dedication to the monarch, which would later play a critical role in his governance.
Berkeley’s Early Governance: The Hero Emerges
Governor Berkeley arrived in Virginia with a bang in 1642, and immediately got to work reshaping the colony. Berkeley was an authoritative figure, handpicking all police, debt collectors, and judges, effectively manipulating the electoral process to ensure his control over Virginia’s government. However, he wasn’t the tyrant people might imagine. At least, not yet.
Berkeley’s rule began optimistically. He avoided punishing Governor Harvey’s enemies, allowing old rivalries to dissolve and fostering a sense of justice and fairness. His policies endeared him to the colonists, enabling discussions on new laws and fairer justice.
The Dark Side of Governance
Despite his early popularity, Berkeley’s control over all branches of government sealed an underlying authoritarian streak. His land ownership, and exclusive rights to beaver fur trade, provided him with immense wealth and influence. Remember the beaver hats that were all the rage back then? Berkeley was cashing in on that market, big time.
His connection to the king fueled policies that banned criticism of the monarchy and restricted civil rights. He maneuvered the government in favor of the upper class, who largely supported the king, further alienating the middle and lower classes who resonated more with Parliament in England.
The Second Massacre and Berkeley’s Iron Will
In 1644, while Berkeley was fighting for the king in England, a second massacre by the natives struck Virginia. The colonists faced severe losses, and upon his return, Berkeley led retaliatory strikes against the natives. His aggressive defense of the colony further solidified his image as a protector of his people.
The Civil War Consequences
The civil war between the king and Parliament wreaked havoc not just in England but had profound consequences for the American colonies too. Virginia, loyal predominantly to the monarchy, saw Berkeley enacting stringent laws against any form of dissent. The death of King Charles I and the rise of Parliament under Oliver Cromwell marked a pivotal shift. Berkeley and the colonists resisted Parliamentary rule vehemently, declaring Charles II as their rightful monarch.
The Clash With Parliament
This defiance didn’t sit well with Parliament, leading to military confrontations. Berkeley, ever the loyalist, prepared for combat, standing resolute with the colonial military against the imminent threat from Parliamentary forces. His determination to defend Virginia’s loyalty to the king highlighted his deep-seated convictions and self-image as the colony's steadfast protector.
Conclusion: A Controversial Legacy
Governor William Berkeley's story is a compelling narrative of loyalty, governance, and conflict. His journey from a devoted servant of the king to a dark, authoritative ruler defines an essential chapter in Virginia’s pre-revolutionary history.
Tune in next week as we explore the showdown between Parliament and Virginia, and uncover what life was like under English rule sans a king.
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