History and Structure

Although the United States became a country in 1776, it wasn't until 1787 that its official Constitution was adopted and the law of the land was put into place.

Our government became a first of its kind in that we became a democracy. More specifically we are a Constitutional Republic, whereby the people elect those who govern them.

Originally the United States was known as the American colonies under Great Britain. These American colonies broke off and became the United States of America. Our country guarantees life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Over time, Amendments have been added to our Constitution whenever it becomes necessary but overall, our style of government has remained the same since 1787.

The United States Government is separated into three main branches or areas. These three branches operate through a system of "checks and balances," meaning, that the branches must cooperate, and there can not be one branch with too much power.

1.) The Executive Branch - the Executive Branch is headed by the President. Although this branch is identified as the Head of the Government, it is by no means more powerful than the other two branches. Some powers of this branch include: the power to enforce laws and the power to veto laws. More information can be found here.

2.) The Legislative Branch - the Legislative Branch is represented by Congress (the Senate and the House of Representatives). The primary power of this branch is to pass laws. This branch can also override the veto of the President if circumstances provide. More information can be found here.

3.) The Judicial Branch - the Judicial Branch is represented by the Supreme Court and lesser courts. The primary power of this branch is jurisdiction, or the power to interpret laws. This branch can declare laws unconstitutional and therefore null and void. More information can be found here.

*Veto - the power or right vested in one branch of a government to cancel or postpone the decisions, enactments, etc., of another branch, esp. the right of a president, governor, or other chief executive to reject bills passed by the legislature.*