Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

Which structure found in the U.S. Constitution addresses concerns expressed in the Declaration of Independence?

1. Checks and balances

2. Separation of powers

3. Federalism

4. Judicial review

The correct answer is: Separation of powers

The structure in the U.S. Constitution that addresses concerns expressed in the Declaration of Independence is the separation of powers. The Declaration of Independence outlines grievances against King George III, particularly focusing on the concentration of power and the potential for tyranny. To prevent similar abuses by a central government, the framers of the Constitution created a system where government powers are divided among different branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial. This separation is designed to ensure that no single branch can overpower the others, thus safeguarding the liberties of individuals and maintaining a balance of authority. By distributing governmental powers in this way, the Constitution seeks to protect citizens from the kind of autocratic rule that was a primary motive for the colonies’ quest for independence, thereby directly addressing those concerns raised in the Declaration of Independence. The other options represent important concepts within the Constitution, but they do not directly connect to the concerns about concentrated power highlighted in the Declaration. Checks and balances, for instance, are a mechanism that operates within the framework of separated powers, while federalism refers to the division of authority between the national and state governments. Judicial review pertains to the courts' ability to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution. Each plays a significant role in governance, but the concept that most