Family trees grow in a variety of soils over distinctive periods of time. It is sort of like growth rings that record a certain time frame of the life of the family tree. Cut in cross section, the family tree may have hundreds of these rings representing different environments. Understanding these "environments" can be the most important way to get a more complete understanding of this family tree. The historical context is one important aspect of these "growth rings", often bringing to life the lives who are represented. Such is the case of Cadwallader Jones (JO-1) and 1676.
Life in Virginia was difficult. The elements of romance are often over played, and the realities of existence in the frontier environment overlooked. The Indian war which began in 1675 has received some attention, but the terror it produced along the Virginia frontier can be misjudged.
A fella named Nathaniel Bacon seemed to get most of the attention, and "Bacon's Rebellion" of 1676 is little understood today. A lack of confidence in the leading Virginia officials [primarily Sir William Berkeley] lead to all kinds of local rebellion and attempts at self protection. In the end, very few folks supported Governor Berkeley in the rebellion. However, our Cadwallader Jones (JO-1) was one who did. Along with Robert Beverly, Cadwallader (JO-1) provided military support to the central government. It is this support that needs to be understood to clearly recognize the reasons for the next several documents in the life of Cadwallader Jones (JO-1).
For those interested good reading :
Morton, R.L., Colonial Virginia, Vol. I, The Tidewater Period 1607 - 1710, The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, 1960. pp. 240-277.
Wertenbaker, T.J., Bacon's Rebellion, 1676, reprinted for Clearfield Co., Inc., 1993. Originally Published 1957. Jamestown 350th Anniversary Historical Booklet, No. 8.
No comments:
Post a Comment