Colonial Governments Charter Colonies – were established by settlers who had been given a charter (a grant of rights and privileges). The settlers elected their own governors and legislature. Great Britain had to approve the governor, but the governor could not overrule the legislature. Proprietary Colonies – were established by individuals or groups granted land by Great Britain. Proprietors (the settlers given the land) could generally govern how they wished. Most appointed a governor and ½ of the legislature (the upper house), while the colonists selected the other ½ (the lower house). Royal Colonies – were directly ruled by Great Britain. The king appointed the governor and council (½ the legislature). The colonists selected the other ½ of the legislature called the assembly. If you had to select where to live based on government what type of colony would you select and why?