What was the primary concern of the framers of the constitution in regards to governmental power?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the main focus of the framers of the constitution concerning how power should be distributed in government. It presents multiple options regarding establishing checks and balances, national government strength, individual freedoms, and the balance between national power and individual rights.
Answer
Balancing power between the federal government and states.
The primary concern of the framers of the Constitution regarding governmental power was balancing power between a strong federal government and the states to prevent tyranny and protect citizens' rights.
Answer for screen readers
The primary concern of the framers of the Constitution regarding governmental power was balancing power between a strong federal government and the states to prevent tyranny and protect citizens' rights.
More Information
The framers were concerned about both empowering the federal government to unify the states and placing limits on that power to prevent oppression. They achieved this through the structure of federalism and the separation of powers, which allowed for checks and balances within the government.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming the framers wanted only a strong federal government without checks; they actually wanted a balanced system to avoid tyranny.
Sources
- Issues of the Constitutional Convention - Mount Vernon - mountvernon.org
- The Framers' Constitution - Democracy Journal - democracyjournal.org
- Module 6: Separation of Powers and Federalism | Constitution Center - constitutioncenter.org
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