The federal government of the united states is divided into three separate branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. which enlightenment philosopher's idea does this represent? a. thomas hobbes b. jean-jacques rousseau c. john locke d. baron de montesquieu

The right answer is D. Baron de Motesquieu.

Montesquieu's theory of separation of powers, on which most modern Western states are based, affirms the distinction between the three powers (executive, legislative and judicial) and their mutual limitations. For example, in a parliamentary democracy, the legislature (Parliament) limits the power of the executive (government): it is not free to act at will and must constantly secure the support of Parliament, which is the expression of the will of the people. In the same way, the judiciary allows counterbalancing certain governmental decisions.

a.indigo and cochineal

b.animal hides

c.silver and gold

e.cacao beans and sugarcane