---
title: "Federalism — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Federalism divides power between national and regional governments by constitution. Know which AP Comp Gov countries are federal and how it manages cleavages."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/federalism"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Comparative Government"
---

# Federalism — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and regional or state governments. Each level of government has its own set of powers and responsibilities.

## Related Study Guides

- [3.8 Political and Social Cleavages](/ap-comp-gov/unit-3/political-social-cleavages/study-guide/3F6Q77Ww8izUo8Dbk6yb)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Devolution](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/devolution): Devolution is the transfer of power from a central government to regional or local governments.
- [Unitary System](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/unitary-system): A unitary system is a form of government where power resides in a centralized authority with little or no autonomy for subnational units.
- Confederation: A confederation is an alliance or union of independent states that come together for common purposes while retaining their sovereignty.