The Need For Self-government in the Colonies

The distance between England and the American colonies posed a significant challenge for the colonists. With thousands of miles separating them from their mother country, the colonists had to establish their own systems of governance to maintain peace and order in their new settlements. While the colonists had a deep-rooted familiarity with English traditions, including the rights of Englishmen and representative government, they needed to adapt these institutions to their unique circumstances in the colonies.

One of the earliest examples of the colonists' efforts to recreate English traditions was the creation of the Mayflower Compact. In November 1620, before even setting foot on land, the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower crafted a written agreement that would serve as the foundation for their self-government. The Mayflower Compact established a social contract among the colonists, ensuring that they would work together to create laws and govern themselves for the general good of the colony.

In addition to the Mayflower Compact, the colonists also established other representative bodies in various colonies. One notable example is the Virginia House of Burgesses, founded in 1619 in Jamestown, Virginia. The House of Burgesses was the first elected legislative body in the English colonies, and it played a crucial role in the development of self-government. Burgesses, who were chosen by eligible voters in the colony, represented the interests of their constituents and participated in the lawmaking process.

Furthermore, many colonies had their own general assemblies, which consisted of elected representatives from the community. These assemblies were responsible for making laws and governing the colony. For instance, the General Assembly of Virginia, established in 1618, included the governor, the Council of State or Governor's Council, and the House of Burgesses. This system allowed the colonists to have a voice in their own governance and ensured that their laws reflected their unique needs and circumstances.

It is important to note that the colonists enjoyed a considerable degree of self-rule for many years, with minimal interference from the English king. This period of "salutary neglect" allowed the colonies to develop their own institutions and systems of governance. While the English crown maintained authority over the colonies, it often turned a blind eye to their internal affairs. This neglect ultimately benefited English rule, as the colonists became accustomed to self-governance and developed a sense of autonomy.

In conclusion, the distance from England compelled the colonists to establish their own laws and systems of governance to maintain peace and order in the American colonies. Drawing on their familiarity with English traditions, the colonists created institutions like the Mayflower Compact, the Virginia House of Burgesses, and general assemblies, which allowed them to govern themselves and make laws that suited their unique circumstances. The period of salutary neglect further contributed to the colonists' ability to rule themselves, setting the stage for the eventual pursuit of independence.