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Lesson 1 of 84 · The Constitution
Why We Needed a Constitution
The U.S. government has three branches: legislative (makes laws), executive (enforces laws), and judicial (interprets laws). This separation prevents any one group from gaining too much power.
Key Facts
1
The U.S. has three branches of government.
2
The Constitution was written in 1787.
3
Checks and balances limit power.
Timeline
1803
The Louisiana Purchase doubles the size of the U.S.
1861
The Civil War begins
1865
The Civil War ends; slavery is abolished
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2How many branches does the U.S. government have?