The Rise of Representative Government in Colonial Virginia

The video discusses the House of Burgesses, the first elected legislature in the 13 colonies, established in 1619 as part of the Virginia General Assembly. It explains the bicameral structure of the assembly, consisting of the council of state and the House of Burgesses, where landowners could vote. The House of Burgesses played a significant role in colonial governance until Virginia declared independence in 1776, transitioning to the House of Delegates, which remains part of the Commonwealth of Virginia's government today.

What was the significance of the House of Burgesses being established in 1619?

• It was the first royal council in the colonies.

• It was the first building constructed in Virginia.

• It was the first elected legislature in the 13 colonies.

• It was the first military assembly in the colonies.

Who were allowed to vote for the members of the House of Burgesses?

• All residents of Virginia

• Only landowning people in Virginia

• Only the King's appointees

• Only members of the Council of State

What change occurred in the Virginia General Assembly in 1642?

• It became a unicameral institution.

• It was dissolved by the King.

• It became a bicameral institution.

• It merged with the Council of State.

Which of the following was NOT a part of Virginia's government before the Revolutionary War?

• The colonial governor

• The House of Burgesses

• The Council of State

• The House of Delegates

What did Virginia become after declaring independence in 1776?

• A province

• A kingdom

• A commonwealth

• A state

What was the new name for the House of Burgesses after 1776?

• House of Commons

• House of Delegates

• House of Lords

• House of Representatives

What does the term 'lower house' signify in the context of the House of Delegates?

• It has fewer members than the upper house.

• It has less power than the upper house.

• It is more commonly elected by the people.

• It is located in a lower part of the building.