U.S. History STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

Which principle of government emphasizes the division of power among different branches?

1. Checks and Balances

2. Separation of Powers

3. Popular Sovereignty

4. Limited Government

The correct answer is: Separation of Powers

The principle that emphasizes the division of power among different branches of government is the Separation of Powers. This concept is fundamental to the structure of the United States government as outlined in the Constitution. It ensures that the legislative, executive, and judicial branches operate independently and have distinct functions. The intention behind this division is to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful and to maintain a system of governance that is accountable to the people. The Separation of Powers is designed to create a framework where each branch can check the others, thereby enforcing a system of checks and balances. This means that while each branch has its own responsibilities, they also have the authority to monitor and limit the powers of the others. This interdependence is crucial for maintaining a balanced and fair government. Other principles, such as limited government, focus on restricting government powers overall, while popular sovereignty pertains to the authority of the government deriving from the consent of the governed. These do not specifically address the division of powers in the way that the Separation of Powers principle does.