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# Colony Assemblies

## Definition

Legislative bodies in British colonies composed of representatives elected by colonial inhabitants, possessing authority to impose taxes and regulate local affairs. These assemblies claimed powers similar to the British Parliament and resisted external taxation without representation.

## Source Chapter

Book IV, Chapter 7

## Context

Smith examines colony assemblies as potential tax authorities, arguing that their distance from Britain and lack of information about imperial needs makes them unsuitable for determining fair contributions to imperial defense. He uses this analysis to support his argument for colonial representation in Parliament.

## Economic Domain

Regulation

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