What characteristic of colonial rule led the colonists to distrust a strong central government? 1-the excessive abuses of power by the British king
2-the respected position of British soldiers
3-the excessive ownership of the land by the Royal Legislatures
4-the powerful influence of the Protestant Church

Correct answer is 1. the excessive abuses of power by the British king .

Explanation:

First option is the correct answer because king of Britain, together with government imposed many taxes, thus showing disrespect towards the colonies. That is why many grievances that were expressed in the Declaration of Independence were stressed toward British king.

Other options are not correct, especially the last one.

The position of soldiers wasn't the factor that could affect the distrust towards the government.

your answer would be (b)