A branch may use its powers to check the powers of the other two in order to maintain a balance of power among the three branches of government. Legislative - Makes Laws Congress is composed of two parts: the Senate and the House of Representatives. read more
The United States Constitution divides government into three separate and distinct branches: the Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches. The concept of separate branches with distinct powers is known as "separation of powers." That doctrine arose from the writings of several European philosophers. read more
The outline of the government of the United States is laid out in the Constitution. The government was formed in 1789, when the Constitution went into effect, making the United States the world's first modern national constitutional republic. read more