Question

When the legislative and executive powers are united in the same person, or in the same body of magistrates, there can be no liberty; because apprehensions may arise, lest the same monarch or senate should enact tyrannical laws, to execute them in a tyrannical manner. Source: Public Domain

Which aspect of the U.S. Constitution shows the influence of Montesquieu on the Founding Fathers?

a. Separating power among three branches of government
b. Balancing power between the people and the government
c. Dividing power between the state and National government
d. Dividing power between two legislative bodies of government

Answer 1

Montesquieu's concept of separation of powers among legislative, executive, and judicial branches is embodied in the U.S. Constitution, preventing any branch from becoming too powerful and ensuring liberty. So, the correct answer is option a.

Step-by-step explanation:

Baron de Montesquieu's influence on the Founding Fathers is explicitly reflected in the U.S. Constitution by the separation of powers among the three branches of government: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial.

This separation is designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful and to ensure liberty by having checks and balances within the government. Article I of the Constitution establishes the legislative branch, Article II sets up the executive branch, and Article III outlines the judicial branch.

Each branch has distinct responsibilities and is structured to check the powers of the other branches. This adherence to Montesquieu's philosophy is a core principle in American democracy that aims to protect against tyranny and preserve civil liberties.