Roots of Representative Government

Roots of Representative Government

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English Bill of Rights

The Bill of Rights also guaranteed more power and freedom for Parliament. Monarchs could no longer rule without Parliament. They needed Parliament’s permission to change the laws, to have a standing army, and to tax the people. Finally, elections to Parliament would be free, and members would have free speech.

Virginia House of Burgesses

The House of Burgesses was the first legislative body in the North American colonies. It was established by Virginia governor George Yeardley at Jamestown on July 30, 1619. At the time, there were 11 settlements in Virginia. Each settlement elected 2 representatives, so there were originally 22 members of the House of Burgesses. It operated until the American Revolution (1775–83). Famous members included George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry.