William Nelson (governor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Nelson
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portrait by Robert Feke
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| Colonial Governor of Virginia | |
| In office 1770–1771 |
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| Preceded by | Norborne Berkeley, baron de Botetourt |
| Succeeded by | John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1711 Yorktown, Virginia |
| Died | November 19, 1772 Yorktown, Virginia |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Elizabeth Burwell |
| Children | Thomas Nelson Jr. and Edward Nelson |
| Parent | Thomas "Scotch Tom" Nelson |
William Nelson (born 1711, died 1772) was an important leader in Virginia long ago. He lived in Yorktown, Virginia. He was a farmer who owned a large farm called a plantation. He was also a politician, which means he helped make decisions for the government.
From 1770 to 1771, William Nelson served as the acting governor of colonial Virginia. This happened between the time two other royal governors, Norborne Berkeley and Lord Dunmore, held the position.
Contents
Who Was William Nelson?
William Nelson was a key figure in Virginia before the American Revolution. He came from a well-known family and played a big role in his community. He was known for his leadership and his support for the American colonies.
Early Life and Family
William Nelson was born in 1711 in Yorktown, Virginia. His father was Thomas "Scotch Tom" Nelson. Thomas Nelson was an immigrant who came to Virginia from Cumbria, England.
Around 1730, William's father built a large home called Nelson House. This house was part of their family's plantation.
Leading Virginia
William Nelson was a respected leader in colonial Virginia. He held various important positions in the government. His experience helped him become the acting governor.
As governor, he was in charge of the colony's affairs. This included managing laws and keeping order. He served during a time when tensions were growing between the American colonies and Great Britain.
Supporting the Revolution
Even before the American Revolution officially began, William Nelson was a strong supporter of the American cause. This movement was called the Patriot cause. Patriots believed the American colonies should have more freedom from British rule.
Nelson worked to support the ideas that led to America's independence. He was part of the group of leaders who wanted to see Virginia and the other colonies govern themselves.
His Son, Thomas Nelson Jr.
William Nelson had a son named Thomas Nelson Jr.. Thomas Jr. followed in his father's footsteps and became very active in politics. He played an even bigger role in the American Revolution.
Thomas Nelson Jr. was one of the thirteen representatives who helped write the Articles of Confederation. This was the first plan for how the new United States would be governed. He also signed the Declaration of Independence. This important document declared America's freedom from Great Britain. Later, Thomas Nelson Jr. became a governor of the new state of Virginia.
