Each state was subdivided into districts, each district governed by a Griet-mann (greatman, selectman) and assistants.

Above all these district officers was a Podesta, a magistrate identical, in name and functions, with the chief officer of the Italian republics.

There was sometimes but one Podesta; sometimes one for each province.

He was chosen by the people, took oath of fidelity to the separate estates, or, if Podesta-general, to the federal diet, and was generally elected for a limited term, although sometimes for life.

He was assisted by a board of eighteen or twenty councillors.