Berkeley, William (1606–1677)

British colonial administrator in North America. He was governor of the colony of Virginia 1641–77 but was removed from office for his brutal repression of Bacon's Rebellion 1676.

When first appointed governor of Virginia, Berkeley proved himself to be an able administrator, but was drawn into English politics and neglected the affairs of his colony. Siding with the Royalists during the English Civil War, he was removed from the governorship by Oliver Cromwell 1652. He was reappointed 1660 by Charles II after the Restoration of the monarchy. However, growing opposition to him in the colony culminated in the rebellion.