The Betrayal and the Execution | America Before the Revolution

In this immersive episode of America Before the Revolution, step into the chaos of Nathaniel Bacon’s Rebellion. After a fragile reconciliation with Governor Berkeley, suspicion boiled over into open defiance. Bacon rallied an army in Henrico, marched on Jamestown, and forced the governor to grant his demands at gunpoint.

But the rebellion didn’t stop there. With bold tactics, Bacon’s men coerced wealthy planters, seized ships, and fought to control Virginia’s future. Betrayal turned the tide, Berkeley briefly retook power, and yet Bacon struck back with fury—culminating in the shocking burning of Jamestown.

This is a gripping story of power, betrayal, and rebellion that shaped the road to revolution.

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💬 Comment below: Would you have followed Bacon—or stood with Berkeley?

🕰️ Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Bacon’s Rebellion

00:17 – Forgiveness and Fragile Peace

01:23 – Bacon Escapes and Rallies at Henrico

02:16 – The March on Jamestown

02:46 – Governor Berkeley’s Countermoves

04:16 – Bacon’s Rule and British Threats

05:38 – Oaths of Loyalty to Bacon

09:53 – Rebels Seize Ships, Then Betrayal

13:50 – Berkeley Returns, Jamestown in Chaos

15:11 – Bacon Strikes Back and Burns Jamestown

16:37 – Closing & Next Episode Teaser

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