Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

How did the House of Burgesses influence American democracy?

1. It was the first instance of a parliamentary system in the colonies

2. It set a precedent for elected representatives and self-governance

3. It established a system of checks and balances

4. It created an official colonial constitution

The correct answer is: It set a precedent for elected representatives and self-governance

The House of Burgesses played a pivotal role in influencing American democracy by setting a precedent for elected representatives and self-governance. Established in 1619 as the first representative legislative assembly in the American colonies, it allowed colonists to elect their representatives, thereby laying the groundwork for the concept of representative democracy that became a hallmark of the United States political system. Through this assembly, settlers were able to participate in their governance, voice their concerns, and exert some control over local affairs. This concept of self-governance was significant as it empowered individuals to have a say in the laws and policies that affected their lives, which was a departure from the more autocratic rule they experienced under colonial governors appointed by the British Crown. The legacy of the House of Burgesses is evident in the later development of democratic institutions in the U.S. It served as a model for other colonies, leading to the establishment of similar legislative bodies and fostering a culture of political participation. This foundation would eventually contribute to demands for greater representation and civil rights as the colonies sought independence from Britain.