Governor Berkeley on Frontier Policy
I write to you in earnest regarding the challenge of maintaining order on our frontier. The colonists, acting largely on their own, have at times disregarded the need for a structured defense against indigenous peoples. I have observed that our reluctance to impose strict control has fostered an environment where insubordination can take root. While self-governance has allowed for local initiative, it also carries the risk of disorder if left unchecked. I fear that this unchecked autonomy, although beneficial in some respects, may eventually undermine the stability required for long-term security. Therefore, I urge a balanced approach that preserves local freedom while ensuring necessary oversight.
- Governor William Berkeley, Letter to the Colonial Council, 1676
According to the excerpt, what was Governor William Berkeley’s primary concern regarding the frontier settlements?
He thought that the frontier colonies were sufficiently advanced to govern themselves without any oversight.
He was chiefly concerned that the colonists’ unchecked autonomy might lead to instability and insubordination on the frontier.
He argued for the immediate and complete withdrawal of English officials to encourage full self-governance.
He believed that strict adherence to the Crown’s policies was unnecessary and would harm colonial trade.
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