Intent of Framers: reflects distrust of power & practical considerations
–    the debates about the adoption of state constitutions of 1776-1787 tells us that separation of powers was essential to free govt b/c it protected liberty by avoiding usurpation of power by branches & preserved independence of citizens b/c it avoided tyranny of one branches.
–    18th Cent. philosophers were concerned about protecting liberty & challenge of adapting institutions of mixed govt. in popular sovereignty.
–    no consensus existed as the precise way to satisfy competing interests.
–    no clear agreement on the meaning of separation of powers other than to protect against tyranny.
–    the early interaction of the branches were not compelled by any doctrine, but rather the practical & political consideration of efficiency.