Understanding Representative Government in the American Colonies

Representative Government

A system where power is held by the people and exercised through elected representatives.

Mayflower Compact

A governing document created by the Pilgrims in November 1620 that established rules for self-governance and emphasized majority decision-making.

Virginia House of Burgesses

The first official legislative assembly in the English colonies, established in 1619 to elect representatives in Virginia.

Monarchy

A form of government where ultimate authority is held by a single individual, usually a king or queen.

Divine Right

The belief that a monarch's authority is sanctioned by God.

Self-Governance

The ability of people to govern themselves, creating laws and decisions without external authority.

Burgesses

Representatives chosen by eligible voters to speak for the colonists in the Virginia House of Burgesses.

Democracy

A system of government where power lies with the people, who elect representatives to make decisions.