What was the role of selectmen in many New England towns?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: They managed local affairs and carried out decisions between town meetings
Selectmen were local officials chosen to oversee town business. They handled practical matters such as roads, poor relief, local regulations, and implementation of town meeting decisions.
Practice all 20 Colonial Governance and Institutions questions
Keep practicing
More Colonial Governance and Institutions questions
- Why did colonial governments often create militias?
- Which feature of colonial government most reflected English political traditions?
- Which statement best summarizes colonial governance in British North America?
- What was the main purpose of colonial assemblies in British North America?
- Which institution was especially important for local government in many New England colonies?
- Why did town meetings develop more strongly in New England than in the Chesapeake?