“The Declaration of the People”: Bacon’s Rebellion

Background: In announcing the rebellion in 1676, Nathaniel Bacon issued “The Declaration of the People,” in which he detailed a set of grievances of the common people against Governor Berkeley’s administration and argued the revolutionary notion that Berkeley’s authority could not be considered legitimate without the people’s consent.

For having upon specious pretenses of Public works raised unjust Taxes upon the Commonality for the advancement of private Favorites and other sinister ends. . . . 

For having abused and rendered Contemptible the Majesty of Justice, [by] advancing to places of judicature scandalous and Ignorant favorites.

For having wronged his Majesty’s Prerogative and Interest by assuming the monopoly of the Beaver Trade.

By having in that unjust gaine Bartered and sold his Majesty’s Country and the lives of his Loyal Subjects to the Barbarous Heathen [the Indians].

For having protected, favored, and Imboldened the Indians against his Majesty’s most Loyal subjects, never contriving, requiring, or appointing any due or proper means [to prevent] their many Invasions, Murders, and Robberies Committed upon us. . . . 

For having . . . forged a Commission by we know not what hand, not only without but against the Consent of the People, for raising and effecting of Civil Wars and distractions. . . . 

Of these the aforesaid Articles we accuse Sir William Berkeley, as guilty of each and every one of the same, and as one, who has Traitorously attempted, violated and Injured his Majesty’s Interest here. . . . 

These are therefore in his Majesty’s name, to Command you forthwith to seize the Persons above mentioned as Traitors to your King and Country, . . . and if you want any other Assistance, you are forthwith to demand it in the Name of the People of all the Counties of Virginia.

Source: Virginia Magazine of History and Biography, I (1893–94).