The delegates at the Constitutional Convention faced a delicate task to organize the powers of government in a way that included built in restraints. As delegates outlined the powers of one branch of government, they further proposed a “defensive power” that authorized review by another branch. For example, if the president is authorized to negotiate foreign treaties, then it would be the legislature’s responsibility to approve the treaty.
Theme
Topic
LOC Resource
LOC Title
Constitution Annotated- Acts of Congress Held Unconstitutional
LOC Short Description
This website presents the U.S. Constitution broken down by articles and amendments, including a section on acts of Congress held unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
LOC Title
Creating the United States Constitution- Executive Branch
LOC Short Description
An interactive presentation to connect ideas in the U.S. Constitution to documents that came before it, with a section on the executive branch.
LOC Title
Magna Carta: Muse and Mentor
LOC Short Description
An exhibition on the Magna Carta and its influence, including its significance to checks and balances in the U.S. Constitution.