What does the term 'Separation of Powers' refer to in the context of government?

The term 'Separation of Powers' refers specifically to the division of government functions among distinct branches, typically the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. This principle is fundamental to many democratic systems, most notably the U.S. Constitution, and it is intended to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power. By allocating different responsibilities and powers to each branch, the system promotes a balance of authority and creates a system of checks and balances, where each branch can limit the powers of the others, thereby safeguarding against tyranny and abuse of power.

In this context, the other concepts presented do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'Separation of Powers.' The establishment of political parties relates to the organization and competition within a political system but does not address the distribution of governmental authority. The creation of local governments is also part of governance but focuses more on administrative functions rather than the foundational structure of power within government as a whole. Lastly, the distribution of powers between state and federal governments pertains to federalism, which deals with the relationship and division of authority between different levels of government, rather than the internal division of the powers within a single government entity.