The governor was the highest-ranking official in a colony. He was appointed by the British Crown and represented the king in the colony. The governor had a wide range of powers, including the ability to make laws, appoint judges, and oversee the militia.
2. Deputy Governor
The deputy governor was the second-highest-ranking official in a colony. He was also appointed by the British Crown and assisted the governor in his duties. The deputy governor could act as governor in the absence of the governor or if the governor died in office.
3. Councilors
Councilors were members of the governor's council, which advised the governor on important matters. Councilors were usually wealthy and influential landowners.
4. Burgesses
Burgesses were members of the House of Burgesses, which was the elected assembly in a colony. Burgesses represented the interests of the colonists and passed laws that applied to the colony.
5. Judges
Judges were appointed by the governor and oversaw the legal system in a colony. Judges heard cases and decided whether people were guilty or innocent of crimes.
6. Sheriffs
Sheriffs were law enforcement officers who carried out the orders of the courts. Sheriffs also collected taxes and served as jailers.
7. Ministers
Ministers were religious leaders who conducted church services and performed other religious duties. Ministers also played an important role in education and social welfare in the colonies.
8. Merchants
Merchants were businessmen who traded goods between the colonies and other parts of the world. Merchants also provided credit to farmers and other colonists.
9. Farmers
Farmers were the backbone of the colonial economy. They grew crops and raised livestock to feed the colonists. Farmers also exported their goods to other parts of the world.
10. Laborers
Laborers were unskilled workers who performed a variety of tasks, such as building houses, clearing land, and harvesting crops. Laborers were often paid very low wages and lived in poverty.