The Romans liked loca autonomy shown by the fact that the first recorded instance was established after just 6 years of the invasion when they converted the legionary fortress at Colchester into a colony.
The colony held prime position within local government as it was essentially a settlement for retired veterans. All of whom were Roman citizens and were given the surrounding land to farm on as part of their retirement grants. Several more colonies popped up and they were designed to inspire and overawe the native populations in which they were situated.
The administration of the colony was like a mini replica of Rome itself with a local Senate, the Ordo, which was made up of a hundred decurions, originally elected by the citizen body but who eventually became self-perpetuating in their office.
Two executive officers presided over the meetings of the Ordo and regulated local justice as well as controlling the administration of festivals and other ceremonies. They were assisted by two Aedils whose job it was to be responsible for the maintenance of public buildings streets and drains and they were also helped by the Quaestores who were responsible for the local finance.
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