The theory of separation of powers was for the first time clearly formulated by

The theory of separation of powers is a fundamental principle of modern democratic governance which aims to ensure that the different functions of government are carried out by different organs or branches of government. The principle was for the first time clearly formulated by Baron de Montesquieu, a French political philosopher, in his influential work "The Spirit of Laws" published in 1748. In this work, Montesquieu argued that the powers of government should be divided into three distinct branches - the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary - and each should be separate and independent from the others to prevent the abuse of power. This concept of separation of powers has since become a cornerstone of modern constitutionalism and has been adopted by many democratic countries around the world.