Separation of powers and checks/balances

In this lesson, we'll explore separation of powers and checks/balances. Understanding history and society helps us become informed citizens.

The U.S. federal government has three branches designed to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power. Legislative Branch (Congress): House of Representatives (435 members, based on state population) + Senate (100 members, 2 per state) = makes laws, controls the budget, declares war, ratifies treaties. Executive Branch: President leads the military, enforces laws, makes foreign policy, appoints judges and agency heads. Judicial Branch: Supreme Court (9 justices) and lower federal courts interpret laws and the Constitution. Checks and balances prevent abuse: Congress passes laws, but the President can veto; Congress can override a veto (2/3 majority); the Supreme Court can declare laws unconstitutional; the President nominates judges, but the Senate confirms them. Federalism divides powers between federal and state governments. The Constitution is the supreme law; the Bill of Rights protects individual liberties from government overreach.

As you work through today's material, pay attention to the examples and try to identify the patterns or strategies being used. This will help you apply these concepts to new problems.

Take notes on key points and make connections to what you've already learned in previous lessons.