When governors could call on military power

What military powers did governors hold?

Their authority varied: American governors controlled National Guard forces, while British colonial governors could invoke military support but might then yield practical control to commanders.

American state governors can call on the National Guard, while British colonial governors could request military aid and declare martial law. Once troops took charge, however, the civilian governor's control could diminish. India was an exceptional case because the viceroy was normally a very senior and politically connected figure. The exchange shows that an official title alone does not reveal the balance between civil authority and military command.