A self-governing colony is a settlement or territory where the residents have the power to make and enforce their own laws, without direct control from a higher governing authority.
Related terms
Representative democracy: A system of government where people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
Colonial assembly: A legislative body composed of elected representatives in colonial America, responsible for making laws and policies for the colony.
Mayflower Compact: An agreement signed by Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower in 1620, establishing a self-governing colony based on majority rule.