The American democratic system did not begin in 1776. The colonies had been experiencing limited forms of self-government since the early 1600s while they were under the British supervision. Governors were appointed by the king and had almost complete authority over the colonies. However, the legislature used its influence to make the governors fulfil the colonies' wishes. American self-rule was not a sudden change. It took about 150 years of practicing rudimentary forms of self-government, until the colonies were ready to revolt against British rule and declare their independence.