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Framers of the Constitution did not want a powerful Executive branch. Most power was held by Congress
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He unilaterally decided to purchase the Louisiana territory from France.
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expanded the presidency by rewarding loyal supporters with government appointments. Also, used the power of veto a great deal.
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During the Civil War, he expanded the army and ordered blockades in the south. He also suspended Habeas Corpus and jailed people for disloyalty.
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Checks and Balances were used with the impeachment of President Johnson over how the south was reconstructed.
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During WWI he took a leading role in international affairs and formulate bills for Legislation.
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Placed Japanese Americans in internment camps by executive order. During The Great Depression, he created the New Deal to provide economic relief.
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He used an Executive order to racially integrate the armed forces. He also took over the steel mills during the Korean War to prevent disruption in steel production. The Supreme Court then ruled against this action.
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He used an executive order to mobilize the Arkansas National guard to de-segregate the public schools.
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He impounded funds for programs he opposed. The courts overturned this ruling and programs were funded.
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He used an Executive order to give thousands of acres of land in Alaska to the National Park Fund.
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Checks and Balances were used to impeach President Clinton over charges of Purgury and Obstruction of Justice
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Over the past 70 years, power has shifted to the Presidency so that Congress and the President are basically equal. Through the years Presidents have used a broad interpretation of the Constitution, inherent powers, and executive orders to expand their power. The Constitution still limits the power of the presidency through checks and balances.
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He declared war on terrorism after 9/11. Also, used the Patriot Act to gather intelligence.