The Citizens Who Defied Their Governor | America Before the Revolution

Governor Berkeley refused to defend against native attacks—or even allow others to protect themselves. Into this chaos stepped Nathaniel Bacon, a fiery young leader who rallied desperate colonists to take matters into their own hands.

What followed was a storm of betrayals, shifting alliances, and mob justice: Bacon clashing with native tribes and the governor’s loyalists, the Assembly turning on its own leaders, and Berkeley forced to face down a rebellion he could no longer control. For a brief moment, Berkeley and Bacon reconciled—before they turned on each other once again.

This is an immersive tale of rebellion, distrust, and the birth of resistance that pushed Virginia closer to revolution.

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

🕰️ Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction & Recap

00:17 – Berkeley’s Inaction Sparks Unrest

01:10 – Nathaniel Bacon Rises as Leader

02:17 – Bacon’s Rebellion Ignites

03:06 – Clash with the Pamunkeys

06:25 – Battle with the Occaneechi

12:35 – Return to Jamestown, Political Turmoil

15:11 – Bacon vs. Berkeley: A Showdown

18:01 – Closing + Next Episode Teaser

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