The term refers to the organization and framework of government in the early years of America, specifically during the founding era.
Related terms
Federalism: The division of power between the national government and state governments.
Separation of Powers: The distribution of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
Checks and Balances: A system that allows each branch of government to limit or constrain the powers of the other branches, ensuring a balance of power.
"Early America's Governmental Structure" also found in: