The Oregon Territorial Legislature was established in 1843 when the Oregon Territory was created by the United States. It served as the governing body for the territory, allowing settlers to create laws and manage local affairs. The legislature consisted of a bicameral system, including a council and a house of representatives, which met annually to address issues affecting the growing population. The first session of the legislature took place in Salem, which later became the state capital. Over the years, the legislature played a crucial role in shaping the laws and infrastructure of the territory, paving the way for Oregon's eventual statehood in 1859.