What is meant by the 'separation of powers'

The theory of 'checks and balances' was conceived by the Founding Fathers, to prevent any one person or body from having too much power. This means that all three branches of government - the executive, the legislature and the judiciary, all work as a check on eachother. For example, Congress has to appropriate funds to the federal government. Another example is the president's ability to veto legislation.

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