The Biographical Dictionary of America/Bacon, Nathaniel

BACON, Nathaniel, colonist, was born in England about 1630. He studied law at the Inns of Court in London, and when twenty years old came to America. He settled in Virginia on a large tract of land near the head of the James river, and was appointed a member of Governor Berkeley's council. At that time the Indians were making much trouble, and the white settlers were insufficiently protected by a few poorly constructed forts. Bacon was made leader of the colonists who determined to march against the savages. His appointment was not confirmed by Berkeley, who did not favor the movement. Bacon marched without the commission, and at the head of ninety men he fought and conquered the troublesome savages. On May 29, 1676, Governor Berkeley proclaimed Bacon a rebel and had him captured and brought to trial. He was acquitted of the charges brought against him, resumed his seat in the governor's council and received the promise of a commission as general for the war against the Indians. This appointment the governor refused to ratify, and when his policy became intolerable to the settlers, and he refused to carry out his promises of reform, Bacon returned at the head of his command, forced him to issue the promised commission and began vigorous operations against the Indians. The governor again proclaimed General Bacon a rebel, and on Aug. 6, 1676, he marched upon Williamsburg, issued a counter proclamation against the governor, and drove him across the bay to Accomac. The people swore fealty to Bacon, who repelled the fresh attacks of the Indians, and in September returned, drove out the governor's forces, burned Jamestown, and forced Berkeley to take asylum on a British ship. Bacon held the women, wives of the partisans of the governor, as hostages, and planned to attack and capture Accomac, but died before his plans could be carried out. Ingram succeeded to the command of the rebels, but was soon after reconciled to Berkeley, and after Bacon's chief adherents were executed. Bacon's rebellion came to an end. He died Oct. 1, 1676.