House of Burgesses

Definition

The House of Burgesses was the first elected legislative assembly in the American colonies, established in 1619 in Virginia. This institution marked a significant step towards representative government in the colonies, allowing settlers to participate in their own governance and laying the groundwork for future democratic practices in America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The House of Burgesses was created to provide a form of self-governance for the settlers in Virginia, reflecting early democratic principles.
2. The first meeting of the House took place on July 30, 1619, with representatives from various settlements in Virginia.
3. Members of the House were elected by landowners in Virginia, highlighting the connection between property ownership and political power during this period.
4. The establishment of the House of Burgesses set a precedent for other colonies to develop their own legislative bodies, promoting the idea of representative government across North America.
5. Although it had limited powers initially, such as taxation and legislation, the House of Burgesses eventually became a crucial platform for voicing colonial grievances against British rule.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the House of Burgesses influence governance in early Virginia?
  • The establishment of the House of Burgesses significantly influenced governance in early Virginia by introducing a system of elected representation. It allowed landowning settlers to voice their opinions on local matters and participate actively in decision-making processes. This laid the groundwork for a tradition of self-governance and political engagement that would become integral to American democracy.
• Evaluate the role of the House of Burgesses in shaping political culture in colonial America.
  • The House of Burgesses played a pivotal role in shaping political culture in colonial America by fostering an environment where representative government could thrive. Its existence encouraged other colonies to form similar legislative assemblies, promoting local governance and civic participation. This assembly also provided a platform for colonists to express their concerns about British policies, contributing to growing sentiments for independence.
• Assess how the emergence of institutions like the House of Burgesses foreshadowed future democratic developments in the United States.
  • The emergence of institutions like the House of Burgesses foreshadowed future democratic developments in the United States by establishing key principles such as representation and accountability. It set an early example of citizens having a voice in their government, which would evolve into broader democratic practices following independence. The conflicts and debates that originated within this assembly also highlighted tensions between colonial interests and British authority, ultimately influencing the push for a more democratic society and governance structure in post-revolutionary America.

Related terms

Jamestown:

The first permanent English settlement in North America, founded in 1607, which became the location for the establishment of the House of Burgesses.

Virginia Company:

A joint-stock company that established the Jamestown colony and promoted the development of self-governance through the House of Burgesses.

Colonial Assemblies: Legislative bodies formed in various colonies throughout North America, modeled after the House of Burgesses, which allowed for local governance and representation.