Question 1 1 pts
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In every government there are three sorts of power: the legislative; the executive in respect to
things dependent on the law of nations, and the executive in regard to matters that depend on the
civil law. By virtue of the first, the prince or magistrate enacts temporary or perpetual laws, ... By
the second, he makes peace or war, sends or receives embassies, establishes the public security,
and provides against invasions. By the third, he punishes criminals, or determines the disputes that
arise between individuals.
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Attempt due: May 26 at
35 Minutes, 47 Seco
The Spirit of Laws by Baron de Montesquieu, 1748, translated by Thomas Nugent
Montesquieu suggested that the powers of government be divided among separate branches, each with
individual powers.
Montesquieu suggested that the people and the government enter into a social contract to protect the
rights of the people.
Montesquieu suggested that if a government fails to protect the rights of its citizens, the citizens have a
right to abolish that government.
Montesquieu suggested that monarchies are corrupt, and therefore a constitutional democracy is a better
form of government.