<P> Colonial government in the Thirteen Colonies of North America shared many attributes . While each of the Thirteen Colonies, destined to become the original United States had its own unique history and development, many common features and patterns emerged in their governing institutions and operations . </P> <P> The representatives of the Government of the colonies represented the colony an extension of the English government . Courts enforced the common law of England . The Governor's Council or the Governor's Court was a body of senior advisers to the appointed royal Governor in each province . </P> <P> The legislative body, which went by various names from colony to colony and through time, was elected by the enfranchised voters . By 1755, most free white men could vote . In colonial New England there were annual town meetings, where each colonist had a voice . </P> <P> Diplomatic affairs were handled by London, as were some trade policies . The colonies generally handled domestic matters (and wars with the Native Americans), but England--and after 1707, Great Britain--handled foreign wars . </P>

How were the members of the upper houses of the colonial legislatures usually chosen