Compact Colony (jan 1, 1619 – jan 1, 1705)

Description:

The compact Colony was an idea, and system to help grow, and administrate New France. It could described as being centred on the Saint Lawrence Valley, and limited expansion. Jean-Baptiste Colbert would design the system for a "compact colony." Jean-Baptiste Colbert established administrative structures identical to the structure that administrated provinces in France. At the top was King, but he delegated most power to his ministers especially Colbert. The colony was administered by the Sovereign Council that was headed by a governor, bishop, and an intendant appointed by the King. The governor held supreme authority as a noble and soldier. He controlled officers, military, and diplomatic affairs. The intendant was responsible for justice, public order, and finance, and was second in command in the colony. He ran the daily affairs of New France, and the budget of the army, and colony. He also built fortifications. The Bishop originally was just behind the governor in power. This meant the Bishop could also choose other council members. However, the Bishop lost this power. The design failed as it wasn’t flexible enough as the Government came from above not below meaning the people couldn’t call meetings of any kind.

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