we the people of the united states, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this constitution for the united states of america.1

which idea is expressed in this excerpt from the constitution?

a. state governments should have as much power as the federal government.

b. the government is divided into three branches.

c. the government is responsible for protecting citizens.

d. the government's power should be limited to protect individual rights.