Question

What were the Founding Fathers trying to create when they divided powers between the judicial, legislative, and executive branches?
republicanism
executive privilege
due process of law
checks and balances
a federal government

Answer 1

How many are you supposed to choose.
Definitely check and balances. But republicanism and federal government could be included if you need more.

Answer 2

check and balances is wrong

Answer 3

Separation of powers is the principle. That leads naturally to checks and balances. But your questioner is looking for some thing else.
The federal system is another way to limit power, but that refers to separation of power between the States and national government.
Separation of powers leads to a limited government. Republicanism supports the idea of a head of state who is a representative of the people, with limited power. A leader of a republic is not a monarch or dictator. That's the connection to republicanism.
Of the answers left, I'd go with republicanism.