80 likes | 201 Vues
The Colonial Experience highlights the evolution of self-governance in America, beginning with the establishment of the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1619. While colonists enjoyed relative autonomy to govern themselves, they remained subject to English authority. The tension between royal governors and colonial legislatures often led to power struggles, illuminating the citizens' desire to preserve their rights. This narrative explores the challenges of citizenship, religious freedom, and the early calls for freedom of the press, culminating in the growing discontent against England's tightening control.
E N D
A Voice in Government • Colonists were used to having their voice heard in gov. • A right in England • Citizens could elect reps to legislature • Used to self-government • Rep. gov. began in 1619 • This was the Virginia House of Burgesses • However still subject to England
A Voice in Government • Royal Authority • Monarchs established each colony with a charter • Could revoke charter and make it a royal colony • England had final authority • However, England was too busy which allowed the colonies to govern themselves
A Voice in Government • Preserving Rights • Resist anything that violates their rights • Occasionally the colonial legislatures and royal governor had power struggles
Citizenship in the Colonies • Being a citizen and being a colonist are different • White, land owning, male adults, were the citizens • This is rare in the world • Citizens were still expected to have rights, responsibilities, and duties • Education is part of this from an early time
Some Roots in Freedom • Greater Religious Freedom • Most parts of the world parts of religion and government were close together • This is why the Pilgrims and Puritans came to the colonies • The Puritans did not allow the Religion freedom to others • Religious freedom in the colonies only allowed for Christians religions
Some Roots in Freedom • A Call for Freedom of the Press • Good source of colonial info. • But not allowed to criticize the gov. • 1735- trial for freedom of the press • Peter Zenger accused NY governor of abuse • Governor puts Zenger in jail • Zenger’s lawyer claims freedom of the press a basic right • The Outcome • Zenger is found not guilty, but it didn’t change the law
Signs of Discontent • England tightened control over the colonies • Colonists did not like this • “Tyranny” is beginning to be used for the governors • Colonists are worried that England will take away all their rights