A Historical Evolution: Comparing the Current U.S. Government to the One Conceived by the Founding Fathers
The United States of America, from its inception in 1787, has undergone a remarkable transformation in terms of its governmental structure and operations. This comparison examines how the current U.S. government differs from the one envisioned by the founding fathers, highlighting key changes and continuing principles.
Founding Context and Structure (1787)
At the time of the American founding in 1787, the expectation was to create a loose confederation of states with a strong federal government. The nation was barely half the size it is today, and the political landscape was vastly different. The founders, many of whom knew each other personally, envisioned a governmental structure that was decentralized and deliberative.
The primary goal was consensus rather than confrontation, with the unifying theme being the preservation of the Union. The federal government's role was not to intrude into state affairs, but to manage common issues and maintain national unity.
Governmental Structures and Practices (1787)
Legislative Branch: The early federal legislative branch resembled a simplified version of the British Parliament. Senators were chosen by state governments, while Representatives were elected by male citizens, a practice that excluded women and most minorities.
Executive Branch: The role of the President was fairly limited. George Washington would serve as a de facto president, with enforcement of federal regulations based on management experience and consultation with state political leaders. The concept of a formal cabinet did not yet exist.
Judicial Branch: The role of the Supreme Court was undefined and minimal. It would take the Court many years to establish its role and authority. The Court heard fewer than 6 cases per year.
Selection of Future Leaders: The concept of an electoral system for choosing future presidents was in its infancy. The Vice President was the second in the electoral process and was often considered the "next man up." The method of electing the first President and the process for selecting subsequent presidents was unclear and evolving.
Taxation and Revenue Generation
Taxation in the early years mirrored European models, with much of the revenue generated through trade duties and internal tariffs. The government approached domestic regulation enforcement with caution, wary of the British military's role in domestic law enforcement and its history of conflicts between the Crown and Parliament.
The prevailing view was to limit military intervention in domestic affairs. The idea of a standing army was controversial, and significant political debates surrounded the issue. Washington initially supported this view, influenced by experiences with Shay's rebellion, which highlighted the need for a strong state militia rather than a federal army.
Evolution Over Time
Over the past 250 years, the U.S. has evolved significantly. From the Civil War to the Progressive Era and the New Deal, each period has brought about substantial changes to the governmental structure and its functions. The Constitution has been amended and refined to adapt to new challenges, such as civil rights, environmental concerns, and technological advancements.
Today, the U.S. government operates under a much more defined and robust framework. The roles of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches are more clearly delineated. The process for selecting a president has become well-established, and the system for amending the Constitution has evolved to better reflect the needs of a modern society.
Conclusion
The current U.S. government bears little resemblance to the structure conceived by the founding fathers. While the principles of federalism and the importance of the Union remain, the practical implementation and the breadth of each branch's responsibilities have expanded considerably. The journey from the loose confederation of 1787 to the complex, efficient, and entrenched government of today reflects both the resilience of the founding principles and the adaptability of American democracy.