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Article: The rebellion's aftermath.(studying Nathaniel Bacon, Sir William Berkeley and colonial Virginia)(Brief Article)
- Article from:
- Cobblestone
- Article date:
- October 1, 2001
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2001 Carus Publishing Co. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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On October 26, 1676, Nathaniel Bacon died of the dysentery and the "lousey disease" (infestation with lice). Since his followers feared his body would be publicly displayed and set as an example to the rebels, they buried it in a secret grave. Governor Sir William Berkeley noted in frustration, "Bacon is Dead I am sorry at my hart That lice and flux should take the hangmans part."
Berkeley's view of Bacon is clear. But of the two men, who was the hero? Who was the villain? Historians differ in their opinions. The role of each man in the rebellion has been the subject of controversy for centuries.
Undeniably, Bacon was the driving force behind the ...