Our Chief Magistrate and His Powers (1916)

Definition

This is a book written by constitutional scholar William Howard Taft, who later became President himself. In it, he discusses the powers and limitations of the executive branch in American government.

Related terms

Executive Branch: The part of government that enforces laws; in America, it includes offices such as President, Vice-President, Cabinet Departments etc.

Constitutional Law: The body of law which defines the relationship between different entities within a state - namely executive, legislature & judiciary branches.

Separation of Powers: A fundamental principle in US constitution where powers are divided among three branches - legislative (makes laws), executive (enforces laws) & judicial (interprets laws).