Question by casey: Why did the writers of the Constitution created a federal system of government?
Also, what’s the relationship between the principles of checks and balances and the separation of powers as detailed in the Constitution?
Best answer:
Answer by Professortemple
They created a stronger federal system of the government in the Constitution because of the failures of the Articles of Confederation, which made for a very weak federal government, and gave all the powers to the states, leading to a number of problems, including within the military, taxation, currency, trade, and mobility of citizens.
The checks and balances system is a key feature of the separation of powers, in that it allows for one branch of the government to ensure that the other(s) aren’t exceeding their power.
Add your own answer in the comments!
Mujer Alta
November 16, 2011 at 11:08 pm
You’re going to love this answer: The new country had a tremendous debt to pay off – the Revolution wasn’t free – and had a very difficult time getting each of the new states to contribute the monies they’ve contracted to give toward payment of the debt under the Articles of Confederation. Bottom line: there were too many states’ rights and the new country wasn’t holding together very well.
Matt
November 16, 2011 at 11:31 pm
The Constitution creates a federalist system of government. That means that power is divided between the state and federal governments.