U.S. History STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

What was essential for the founding of New Jersey in terms of governance?

1. A royal charter for economic improvement

2. A proprietary charter for religious freedom

3. A need for political independence

4. A division of New York due to governance challenges

The correct answer is: A division of New York due to governance challenges

The founding of New Jersey can be closely associated with the division of New York, which arose due to governance challenges. Originally, New Jersey was part of the larger New York colony, and as settlers increased, the administration of such a vast area became complicated. The need for more localized governance led to the establishment of New Jersey as a separate entity. This division allowed for more effective management of the region and facilitated better representation for the colonists. The governance issues experienced under the New York administration demonstrated the difficulties of managing a colony that was too large and diverse, thus underscoring the importance of dividing it into smaller, more manageable colonies like New Jersey. This change highlighted the challenges of colonial governance during that period and emphasized the significance of localized political structures in establishing a new colony.