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, allowing settlers to have a say in their local laws and policies. This assembly paved the way for future democratic practices in America by giving colonists a formal role in government, influencing governance models in other colonies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The House of Burgesses was established as part of an effort to address the needs and concerns of Virginia's settlers, who sought greater autonomy from England.
2. Members of the House of Burgesses were elected by landowning men, reflecting early notions of representative government.
3. The first session of the House took place on July 30, 1619, and included 22 representatives from various settlements across Virginia.
4. The decisions made by the House of Burgesses were crucial for the establishment of laws and regulations concerning land ownership, taxation, and local governance.
5. Although the House of Burgesses was dissolved by royal governors at times, its existence laid the groundwork for future legislative assemblies and democratic ideals in America.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the House of Burgesses reflect the desires of Virginia's settlers for self-governance?
  • The establishment of the House of Burgesses demonstrated Virginia settlers' growing desire for self-governance by allowing them to participate directly in decision-making processes. As an elected assembly, it enabled colonists to voice their concerns and create laws tailored to their needs. This was a pivotal moment in colonial history that set a precedent for representative government and gave settlers a sense of ownership over their governance.
• In what ways did the House of Burgesses influence future governance structures in other American colonies?
  • The House of Burgesses served as a model for other colonies looking to establish their own legislative bodies. Its framework inspired similar assemblies across New England and beyond, promoting the idea that colonists could govern themselves through elected representatives. This influence contributed to a growing trend toward self-governance and democratic principles that would be essential as tensions with Britain escalated leading up to the American Revolution.
• Evaluate the significance of the House of Burgesses in shaping political thought in early America and its legacy in modern governance.
  • The House of Burgesses was significant because it introduced the concept of representative democracy to the American colonies at a time when most governments were still monarchical. Its emphasis on elected representation influenced political thought, paving the way for future democratic movements. The legacy of this assembly can be seen today in modern American governance, where representative institutions are central to maintaining democratic ideals and local autonomy.

Related terms

Jamestown:

The first permanent English settlement in North America, established in 1607, which served as a key location for early colonial governance and economy.

Colonial Assembly: A legislative body formed in various American colonies that provided local governance and representation for colonists, similar to the House of Burgesses.

Self-Governance: The practice of governing oneself or having control over one's own affairs, a principle that became increasingly important in the American colonies as they developed their political systems.