Which document introduced the establishment of an executive branch, not present in the earlier framework?

• A. The United States Constitution
• B. The Articles of Confederation
• C. The Magna Carta
• D. The Northwest Ordinance

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is the creation of a separate executive branch within the national government. The United States Constitution established the presidency and vice presidency, giving a distinct office to enforce laws, conduct foreign policy, and oversee national administration. This separation of powers, with a defined executive, was not present in the earlier framework. The Articles of Confederation created a very weak central government and did not provide an independent executive; the government largely operated through Congress. The Magna Carta focused on limiting the king’s power rather than creating modern executive offices. The Northwest Ordinance governed territories and pathways to statehood, not the establishment of a national executive branch.