The British colonies and protectorates were territories that at the global level were under the dominion of the British Empire. The foundation of the British Empire at the end of the seventeenth century is considered the starting point of the territorial evolution of the United Kingdom. The colonies were territories that were destined to be places of permanent settlement, providing land for its inhabitants. The Crown declared its absolute sovereignty over them, although they were not formally part of the United Kingdom itself. In general, their right was the Common Law of England, together with all the laws of Parliament that were also applied to them. The royal authority was usually represented in the person of a governor, appointed by the British Government. Over time, a number of colonies were granted "responsible government", which resulted in self-government.
