Create a diagram showing the relationship between the three branches of the federal government. In your diagram, describe the primary responsibility of each branch. List, either in your diagram or separately, the checks each branch can exercise on the other two branches. Then write a short paragraph analyzing how a change in the system of checks and balances could affect the relationship between the branches.

in february 1787, congress decided that a convention should be convened to revise the articles of confederation, the nation’s first constitution. in may, 55 delegates came to philadelphia, and the constitutional convention began. debates erupted over representation in congress, over slavery, and over the new executive branch. the debates continued through four hot and muggy months. but eventually the delegates reached compromises, and on september 17, they produced the u.s. constitution, replacing the articles with the governing document that has functioned effectively for more than 200 years.