Final answer:
The Electoral College was designed as a compromise to balance the principles of federalism and popular sovereignty in the election process of the President, by involving the states in electing a body of electors who then choose the President.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Electoral College solved a conflict between the principles of federalism and popular sovereignty by creating a system in which a special body of electors, chosen by the states, would select the President. This compromise provided a role for state legislatures in the electoral process and ensured that the general public could participate through the selection of electors, while insulating the national executive leadership from direct popular vote and potential abuses associated with legislative appointment.
Each state received a number of electors equal to its total number of Senators and Representatives, acknowledging state sovereignty while also recognizing population differences. Over time, the role of the Electoral College evolved, but its creation was pivotal in maintaining a balance between federal and democratic elements within the United States government structure.
The most accurate answer to the student's question is: A. It created a role for the state legislatures in choosing national executive leadership.