Final answer:
The principle of government that divides powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches in the U.S. is called the Separation of Powers, a concept key to maintaining checks and balances within the federal system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Principle of Government Dividing Power:
The principle of government that divides power among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches is known as the Separation of Powers. This framework was established to ensure no single branch would gain too much authority, effectively implementing a system of checks and balances within the U.S. government. It is fundamental to the Constitution's structure and intended to uphold democratic principles by distributing governmental functions and powers.
Operational Dynamics of the Branches:
The Legislative Branch is responsible for making laws and is the "people's branch," reflecting the citizens' will. The Executive Branch must implement and execute these laws, overseeing the day-to-day administration of the government. The Judicial Branch interprets laws and upholds justice through the court system, including the power of judicial review to ensure laws comply with the Constitution.
This division not only exists at the national level but is mirrored within state governments as well, each with its own governors, legislatures, and courts, preserving a degree of autonomy and exercising separation of powers at a subnational scale.