How does our system of checks and balances protect our rights ? why is the power divided?

The system of checks and balances help protect our rights because if congress decided they want to pass a law, the president has to okay the bill. If the president thinks its taking rights away he can veto or pocket-veto the bill. Another example is that the president can move troops wherever he wants military wise, but can't declare war. Only congress can declare war. But in retrospect, the power is divided so that one group in the government has to much power over people and over other government politics.