It makes laws; powers include passing laws, originating spending bills (House), impeaching officials (Senate), in approving treaties (Senate).
Answer:
Over cultural differences, as well as slavery, language, and religions
The Great Compromise was one of the agreements made during the Constitutional Convention of 1787. States that had a greater population argued that they should have a greater representation in Congress. Smaller states demanded equal representation, as they argued that unequal representation would lead to an unfair dominance of the larger states over the country's affairs.
Roger Sherman ultimately came with the solution of a Congress with two houses. The House of Representatives would have representation proportional to the population in each state. However, the Senate would have 2 representatives per state. Regardless of their population.
The Great Commoner--for his ability to connect to the common man.
William Jennings Bryan had an ability to speak but also connect to the ordinary American person. He connected to the rural communities and eventually became the leader of the Populist Party and the Democratic Party. He believed in fundamental Christianity, temperance, farming, the common people.
Standing Committees are permanent committees established under the standing rules of the Senate and specialize in the consideration of particular subject areas. The Senate currently has 16 standing committees. Joint Committees include membership from both houses of Congress