Final answer:
The national government of the United States is structured into three branches: the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches. This structure was established by the U.S. Constitution, which replaced the earlier Articles of Confederation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The national government of the United States is structured into three branches: the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches. This structure was established by the U.S. Constitution, which replaced the earlier Articles of Confederation.
The Executive branch is headed by the President of the United States and includes the President's cabinet and executive departments. The President is responsible for enforcing laws, representing the country, and making important decisions.
The Legislative branch consists of Congress, which is divided into two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Congress is responsible for making laws and has the power to declare war, levy taxes, and regulate commerce.
The Judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Court, which is the highest court in the country. The Supreme Court interprets laws, resolves disputes, and ensures that actions taken by the other branches of government are constitutional.
The Articles of Confederation, on the other hand, had a much weaker national government. It consisted of a one-house Congress without a separate executive or judicial branch. The Congress under the Articles of Confederation had limited powers and struggled to effectively govern the country.