House of Burgesses

Definition

The House of Burgesses was the first elected legislative assembly in the American colonies, established in 1619 in Virginia. It marked a significant step toward self-governance and represented the interests of the colonists, allowing them to participate in creating laws and making decisions regarding local governance. This assembly set a precedent for future representative government in America and highlighted the evolving relationship between the colonies and British rule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The House of Burgesses was convened for the first time on July 30, 1619, at Jamestown, making it a cornerstone of democracy in America.
2. Members of the House of Burgesses were elected by free men who owned property in Virginia, emphasizing early notions of representation and consent.
3. The assembly had the authority to create laws, levy taxes, and make decisions regarding local matters, showcasing a move toward self-governance.
4. The House operated alongside the governor's council, reflecting a balance between colonial authority and local interests.
5. Its establishment influenced other colonies to form similar legislative bodies, laying the groundwork for representative democracy across America.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the House of Burgesses contribute to the development of democratic practices in colonial America?
  • The House of Burgesses laid the foundation for democratic practices by introducing an elected legislative assembly where colonists could voice their opinions and participate in governance. It marked a departure from autocratic rule, allowing property-owning men to elect representatives who would address their concerns. This shift towards self-governance influenced other colonies to adopt similar structures, fostering a sense of political agency among colonists.
• What were some key powers and functions of the House of Burgesses during its early years, and how did these influence colonial governance?
  • In its early years, the House of Burgesses had significant powers, including creating laws, levying taxes, and addressing local issues. This authority allowed colonists to shape their governance according to their needs rather than being solely subject to British rule. The legislative assembly's actions set precedents that influenced later colonial governance structures and contributed to increasing tensions between the colonies and Britain as they sought more autonomy.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of the House of Burgesses on American political development leading up to independence.
  • The House of Burgesses played a crucial role in shaping American political identity by establishing principles of representation and self-governance. As tensions grew between Britain and the colonies, this early assembly provided a framework for democratic participation that would be echoed in future revolutionary efforts. Its legacy can be seen in the creation of state legislatures and eventually the U.S. Congress, illustrating how early colonial experiences with representative government laid essential groundwork for America's fight for independence.

Related terms

Virginia Company: A joint-stock company that established the Jamestown colony in Virginia, responsible for promoting settlement and economic development in the area.

Colonial Assembly: A legislative body formed in various American colonies that allowed colonists to enact laws and govern themselves, often consisting of an upper house appointed by the governor and a lower house elected by property owners.

Self-Governance: The ability of a group or community to govern itself without external control, a principle that became increasingly important in the American colonies as they sought more autonomy from British rule.