William Berkeley was a colonial governor of Virginia, serving multiple terms in the 17th century. He is best known for his role in the early development of the colony and his efforts to promote trade and agriculture. Berkeley's leadership was marked by his attempts to maintain peace with Native American tribes while also expanding colonial territory. Berkeley's tenure was also characterized by political conflict, particularly with the settlers who felt underrepresented. This tension culminated in Bacon's Rebellion in 1676, a revolt led by Nathaniel Bacon against Berkeley's policies. The rebellion highlighted the growing discontent among colonists and the challenges of governance in the rapidly changing colony.