Francis Bond Head was an English author, traveler, and colonial administrator born in 1793. Serving as the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada from 1835 to 1838, Head's tenure was marked by controversial policies and decisions. His actions during this time often generated widespread criticism and led to his eventual recall by the British government.
In addition to his political career, Head was also an accomplished writer. He authored several books based on his personal experiences, including "Rough Notes Taken During Some Rapid Journeys Across the Pampas and Among the Andes," which chronicled his travels in South America, and "Bubbles from the Brunnens of Nassau," which described his visit to Nassau, Germany. Through his writings, Head showcased his observations and impressions of the places he visited, providing readers with a firsthand account of his adventures.
Despite his literary achievements, Head's name has become synonymous with controversy and criticism due to his tumultuous time as the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada. His policies, such as the dismissal of officials and attempts to suppress rebellion, were met with strong opposition from both the local population and the British government. The way in which he governed the colony, often without consultation or consent, contributed to his unpopularity and eventual dismissal.
Overall, Francis Bond Head was a complex figure in English history. While his travels and writings brought him recognition and acclaim, his actions as a colonial administrator left a lasting impact that continues to be studied and debated by historians today.
