Merchant, entrepreneur and mining pioneer, the English-born Bennett was for over 50 years deeply involved in Newfoundland's industrial development. He served in the Assembly (1843-48) and the Legislative Council (1850-55), but it was as the leading opponent of Confederation that Bennett gained his greatest prominence, winning the critical election of 1869. During his administration the colony prospered and such useful measures as the reorganization of the constabulary and a regular steamer link with Britain were secured. Bennett retired from active political life in 1878 and died in St. John's.