US parliamentary traditions date back to the late 18th century. The legislative body of this country was called the Congress. Its history began in 1774, but the first modern parliament with two chambers was created later. Today, the US Congress is located in the Capitol Building in Washington DC. In its structure and functions, it differs somewhat from the representative institutions of other countries.
Instructions
Step 1
The US Congress is one of the branches of government that sets the laws of the country. It consists of two parts - the Senate and the House of Representatives. The presence of two chambers allows the state to ensure a balance between the interests of various social groups. Such a system of balances, which is absent in unicameral parliaments, is considered optimal for a democratic state.
Step 2
The main function of the American parliament is the preparation, discussion and final adoption of legislative acts, which are subsequently sent for approval to the head of state. The powers of the US Congress, in contrast to the parliaments of a number of other countries, are quite broad. This is the maintenance of the army, and the printing of money, and the regulation of relations between administrative entities. The competence of this body also includes the declaration of war and amendments to the country's constitution.
Step 3
The US Congress also has oversight functions. He monitors the implementation of the state's tax policy. The American Parliament has the right to oversee the actions of the executive authorities, as well as conduct relevant investigations. Congress can summon high-ranking officials for this purpose, organizing large-scale hearings. Typically, such events are widely reported in the media.
Step 4
The task of the US Congress is also to share powers with the head of state on the formation of domestic and foreign policy. The President has the right to conclude foreign policy treaties, but they come into force only after discussion and approval in the Senate. The legislature has the right to declare war, but the head of state remains the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
Step 5
One of the features of the US Parliament is the principles for determining representation in this body, which have changed several times. Members of Congress are now elected by direct vote of the residents of the state whose interests will be represented by the people's choice. Until 1913, until the corresponding amendment to the constitution was adopted, senators were elected by the legislatures of individual states, and members of the House of Representatives were elected by voters.
Step 6
Sessions of the House of Representatives and Senate, as a rule, take place in different premises of the Capitol. But from time to time, both parts of parliament meet in joint sessions to resolve the most important issues. The reason for such events may be, for example, the annual address of the head of state or the counting of votes in the presidential elections.
