1. Federalism - divides the powers of government between central and state governments: rights of the states are preserved by separating powers between the national government and the state governments.
2. Separation of powers - divides the powers of government into different branches: divided among executive, legislative, and judicial branches to limit the concentration and abuse of power by any one branch.
3. Checks and balances - each branch of government has certain powers that prevent the abuse of power on the people: authority to check, regulate, or limit the power of the other branches.