9. "In order to lay a due foundation for that separate and distinct exercise of the different powers of government,which to a certain extent is admitted on all hands to be essential to the preservation of liberty it is evident that each department should have a will of its own" a. Individual rights b. Separation of powers c. Republicanism d. Federalism

## Step 1<br />The given statement discusses the concept of having different departments or branches of government, each with its own will or authority. This concept is known as the "Separation of powers". <br /><br />## Step 2<br />The statement does not primarily discuss individual rights, which would focus on the rights and freedoms of individual citizens. <br /><br />## Step 3<br />The statement also does not primarily discuss republicanism, which is a form of government where the country is considered a "public matter" and the head of state is an elected or nominated president. <br /><br />## Step 4<br />Lastly, the statement does not primarily discuss federalism, which is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, like states or provinces. <br /><br />## Step 5<br />Therefore, the correct answer is "b. Separation of powers".