Which colonies allowed voting to determine government representatives?

The correct choice highlights Rhode Island and Connecticut as colonies that allowed voting to determine government representatives. These colonies were known for their relatively liberal democratic practices, particularly in the context of the time. Both Rhode Island and Connecticut implemented forms of self-governance, allowing male property owners to vote on important matters and to elect their representatives.

Rhode Island, founded by dissenters seeking greater religious freedom and a break from more authoritarian governance, was particularly noted for its commitment to democratic principles. It established a government that was more responsive to the will of the people compared to many other colonies. Connecticut followed a similar path, being one of the first to adopt a constitution (the Fundamental Orders of 1638-1639), which laid out a framework for a representative government that embodied the principles of voting by the populace.

The other colonies mentioned did not have as progressive voting practices. The New England Colonies, while more democratic than other regions, often had property and church membership requirements that limited voting rights. The Middle Colonies had a mix of practices, with some areas allowing for more participation, but not as consistently as Rhode Island and Connecticut. Royal Colonies were directly governed by royal officials appointed by the British crown, which often stripped power from local assemblies and limited