What powers did colonial governments have in the 18th century?

Very little, however Though the Marshall court, the Government received powers such as judicial review, in Marbury vs Madison, Gave gov. power to control Interstate commerce, in Gibbons vs Ogden, and it allowed sale of land regardless if made corruptly in Fletcher vs Peck. All of these powers were granted within the 1800's

The colonial governments had power to pass laws and create taxes. they also decided how the colony's tax money should be spent. they also elected their own assemblies.

Constitutional Monarch had its origins when King John was compelled to sign the Magna Carta that protected the barons from abusive of power from the king.  Later during the rise of Parliament, they presented the Bill of Rights that laid down a list of rights of individuals that further limited the power of the nobility.  When the English Civil War ended, the monarchy was restored but so as not to anger parliament, constitutional monarchy was establish that gave more power to the parliament than the king.

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