Question

The excerpt shows which of the causes of Bacon’s Rebellion? A) favoritism and corruption among colonial elites B) dissatisfaction with royal rule in the colonies C) colonial rivalries between Virginia and New England D) the persecution of Native Americans by British troops

Answer 1

Answer:

Bacon's Rebellion was caused by:

A) favoritism and corruption among colonial elites

Explanation:

According to history, "Governor William Berkeley used new trade rules to increase his wealthy friends’ fortunes" while refusing to officially back the usurpation of the land of the friendly natives on the borders of Virginia.  These moves angered "Nathaniel Bacon, who had recently arrived in Virginia and was Berkeley’s cousin by marriage."  He termed the situation as "the governor’s disloyalty and unfairness."

Then, in 1676, Nathaniel Bacon led Virginia settlers to challenge the authority of Governor William Berkeley as he continued to protect the interests of the native Americans in the western frontier.  The Virginia settlers had believed that the western frontier belonged to them and not to the original native Americans whom they regarded as "barbarous heathen."  But, Governor William did not want to legitimize their demand with political authority.  His stand further infuriated Nathaniel Bacon, who decided to lead an armed rebellion to sack the natives from their land and later against the Governor, following his proscription of the rebellious group.