Virginia has long been recognized as the birthplace of America. Leaders of our Commonwealth were the founders of the United States’ ongoing experiment in representative self-government. The story of American democracy began in Virginia in 1619 and continues today with citizen-lawmakers serving the Commonwealth. In recognition of the 400th anniversary of America's first and oldest law-making body, the House Clerk’s Office is chronicling the nearly 10,000 men and women who have served either as Burgesses or Delegates elected to the Virginia General Assembly over the past four centuries. Learn more about leaders elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses and the Virginia House of Delegates...