The crown colony system is a form of British direct rule over territory that was annexed by the British Empire. Under this system, a colony was ruled directly by a governor appointed by the British government, rather than through the use of traditional rulers or local elites. The governor had significant power over the colony's administration, including the power to make laws, establish courts, and appoint officials. This system was commonly used in Africa and other parts of the British Empire during the 19th and early 20th centuries.