Which figure served as conservative, pro-English lieutenant governor and acting governor of Massachusetts, and was smeared by Adams?

• A. Francis Bernard
• B. Sam Adams
• C. Thomas Hutchinson
• D. George Washington

Answer: (C)

In colonial Massachusetts, the person described is someone who stood firmly for British authority, holding the lieutenant governor’s role and acting as governor when the royal governor was away. This position gave real influence in a period of mounting tension between colonial assemblies and Parliament. Thomas Hutchinson fits this profile: he was a loyalist who advocated enforcing imperial policies and maintaining order, serving as lieutenant governor and acting governor during disputes with the colonial leadership. He became a central target for radical leaders like Samuel Adams, who smeared him by publicizing private correspondence with British officials—the Hutchinson Letters—to portray him as colluding with Parliament against the colonists. This combination of staunch pro-British stance and being the subject of a smear campaign is why he is the best answer. Francis Bernard was the governor, not the lieutenant governor; Sam Adams and George Washington were associated with different roles and loyalties.