jan 1, 1605 - Colonial Governments (1605-1776)

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When the thirteen original colonies were first settled in America, they each had their own charter, a written agreement between the colony and the King of England/Parliament. This allowed the king to have direct rule. Soon colonial legislatures came about which controlled the governor's salary and to keep them in line with the wishes of the colonies. The Virginia House of Burgesses was the first colonial legislation. It was established in 1619.

The restriction of these governments caused the colonies to create their own constitutions. These constitutions varied from colony to colony but had the same message overall. Some of these ideas included their fundamental rights, rule of law, separation of powers, and checks and balances. These principles helped protect their rights and freedoms as well as prevent the government from becoming too powerful.

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