Interactions among the three branches of government have changed substantially throughout the course of history, but there have been decades when patterns of interaction emerged. Between the 1830s and the 1900s, during a period known as the Partisan Era, the divisions between the parties led to Congressional actions and maneuvers that were strongly motivated by political interests. The relationship between President Lincoln and Congress prior to, during, and after the Civil War was marked by a coordinated political agenda in Congress, along party lines. The effort was very successful in implementing Reconstruction programs even after Lincoln's death.

The years between the start of World War I and the 1960s are sometimes referred to as the Committee Era, and are most often associated with Franklin Roosevelt. During this period, the partisan political cooperation between the executive and legislative branches underwent substantial changes, beginning with the stock market collapse of 1929 and the Great Depression. After World War II, the U.S. was less influenced by political parties and more influenced by a desire for social and commercial stability. For instance, during the post-World War II era, the branches of government worked together to create a basic social welfare infrastructure. During this time, there were also bipartisan efforts to streamline governmental operations and to reduce congressional gridlock.

a map showing party affiliations in the U.S. in 2010

The Contemporary Era in federal government began in the 1970s, and it continues today, characterized by a new level of partisanship. The first major event in this era was Watergate, which signaled a return of congressional divisions. Every president since Nixon has been seen as the leader of his political party, and Congress has remained deeply divided, with Americans expressing little hope that any attempts at collaboration will last very long or succeed. 

Do you know how the executive and legislative branches have interacted in the past? Try the activity below to refresh your memory.