The coming of the U.S. Constitution

In the late 1700’s, American colonists broke

away from England

American colonists thought their natural

rights were being violated by the King of England

Tyranny: cruel or oppressive government

rule

First, Americans set up a government under the

ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION

This had a very weak central government.

How come?

Americans didn’t want to to give government a lot

of power for fear of another tyrant.

The Articles of Confederation were too weak. America

needed a government that was strong but that could be

prevented from abusing power.

What did they come up with?

Separation of Powers: splitting government into

different branches

Checks and Balances: a system that prevents any

one branch of government from

becoming too powerful.

Impeach: accuse and charge with misconduct

Checks and Balances

The Executive Branch checks the Judicial Branch by:

• Appointing federal judges• Granting pardons for federal

crimes

The Executive Branch checks the Legislative Branch by:

• Vetoing acts of Congress

The Legislative Branch checks the Executive Branch by:

• Override presidential vetoes with a 2/3 vote

• Can impeach and remove the president

The Legislative Branch checks the Judicial Branch by:

• Refuse judicial appointments

• Can impeach and remove judges

The Judicial Branch checks the Legislative Branch by:

• Declaring acts of Congress unconstitutional

The Judicial Branch checks the Executive Branch by:

• Declaring acts of the President unconstitutional

Based on what we have learned, which would you say is the

strongest branch? Why?

The weakest branch? Why?