What principle was included in Georgia's first constitution of 1777?

The principle of separation of powers was a foundational element in Georgia's first constitution of 1777. This principle is designed to prevent any single branch of government from gaining too much power by distributing authority among different branches. In the context of the 1777 constitution, Georgia established distinct legislative, executive, and judicial branches, each with its defined powers and responsibilities. This structure aimed to protect the rights of citizens by ensuring that governmental power was not concentrated in one entity, thereby promoting accountability and protecting against tyranny.

In contrast, the other principles, while important concepts in government, were either not fully realized or elaborated in the 1777 constitution. Federalism relates to the division of power between national and state governments, which became more defined in later constitutions. Checks and balances, which allow each branch of government to limit the powers of the others, evolved more prominently in subsequent frameworks. Popular sovereignty, the principle that government derives its power from the consent of the governed, was indeed significant but was not explicitly outlined as a governing principle in that early constitution.