The Formation and Impact of the House of Burgesses in Colonial America

The video discusses the importance of governance when starting a new venture, using the House of Burgesses as an example. Formed by the Virginia Company, it was the first government system in North America, funded by wealthy capitalists. The House was structured with elected representatives, mainly from the gentry, and followed English Common Law. Voting was restricted to white males over 17. The system was similar to England's but supported rebellion against the Monarchy. Despite its short lifespan, the House's legacy lived on through its famous alumni, including many founding fathers.

Why did the American colonists feel the need to form a governing body?

• To build more treehouses

• To establish trade routes

• To enforce and uphold rules

• To create a new language

Who established the House of Burgesses?

• The British Monarchy

• The Virginia Company

• The French Settlers

• The Spanish Armada

What was the purpose of the headright system?

• To provide free transportation

• To create a new form of government

• To offer land to settlers

• To establish a new currency

Who primarily funded the House of Burgesses?

• European monarchs

• Native Americans

• Wealthy capitalists

• Lower-class farmers

What was the role of a burgess in the House of Burgesses?

• A trade negotiator

• A religious figure

• An elected representative

• A military leader

What form of government did the House of Burgesses adopt?

• Spanish Inquisition

• Roman Law

• English Common Law

• French Civil Code

Who were the three parties involved in the governance of the House of Burgesses?

• The King, the Queen, and the Prince

• The Governor, the Councilmen, and the Burgess

• The Mayor, the Sheriff, and the Judge

• The President, the Senate, and the House

What was a requirement to vote in the House of Burgesses?

• Being a military officer

• Being a landowner

• Being a white male over 17

• Being a member of the clergy

Why did the House of Burgesses eventually decline?

• Natural disasters

• Support for rebellion against the Monarchy

• Lack of funding

• Invasion by foreign powers

What is the lasting impact of the House of Burgesses?

• It established a new religion

• Its alumni became founding fathers

• It created a new language

• It built the first American city