Colonial Authorities

Definition

Colonial authorities refer to the governing bodies and officials who held power in the American colonies during the colonial period. These authorities were appointed by the British monarchy and were responsible for enforcing laws, collecting taxes, and maintaining order in their respective colonies.

Related terms

Royal Governors: These were appointed officials who represented the king's interests in each colony and had significant control over colonial policies.

Colonial Legislatures: These were representative assemblies that existed in some of the colonies, where elected representatives made local laws and regulations.

Town Meetings: In New England colonies, town meetings provided a form of self-government where local residents gathered to discuss and make decisions on community issues.