Which of the following was true of the colonial elite?

A) The colonial aristocracy was far more powerful and wealthier than England's nobility.
B) Nearly every Virginian of note achieved prominence through family connections.
C) The gap between rich and poor was nearly nonexistent.
D) Few spoke English as a first language.
E) Mercantile success was dependent on business talent as opposed to personal connections.

The option B is true as it states that nearly every Virginian of note achieved prominence through family connections, highlighting the importance of social status and family background in the colonial elite. The other options are not correct as colonial aristocracy was not more powerful and wealthier than England's nobility; the gap between the rich and poor was significant; and most people spoke English as a first language. In addition, personal connections were important for mercantile success in the colonial era.