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Sir Edmund Andros

Born in Guernsey, England, Sir Edmund Andros enjoyed a long career as a British colonial administrator, but was one of the most unpopular governors in American history. He first served as governor of New York from 1674 to 1681. He was a steadfast supporter of the Duke of York, who, when he became King James II in 1685, made Andros governor of the Dominion of New England the following year. An unfortunate choice was made by selecting Boston as the headquarters of the new unified colonial government. The staid Congregationalists' sensibilities were offended by the newly arrived British soldiers' boisterous behavior, and by Andros’ support of the Anglican Church. When James II was deposed in the Glorious Revolution, Andros' influence plummeted immediately. He attempted to flee from Boston dressed in women’s clothing, but boots showing beneath his dress led to his discovery. Andros was temporarily detained and later sent back to England. He did not remain out of favor long, however, and went on to serve as governor of Virginia (1692), Maryland (1693-94), and finally Guernsey (1704-06). Andros is remembered in America for meddling in colonial customs, inhibiting representative government, and his officious manner. See English Monarchs.