Federalism

Definition

Federalism is a political system in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. This division of power allows for both national and regional governance, balancing local interests with the need for a unified national policy. It is essential to understanding how the United States structured its government post-Revolution, particularly in relation to state governments, international agreements, and the formation of the Constitution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Articles of Confederation created a weak central government, leading to a call for a stronger federal system during the Constitutional Convention.
2. Federalism allows states to retain certain powers, such as regulating education and conducting elections, while the federal government handles issues like defense and foreign policy.
3. The U.S. Constitution established federalism as a fundamental principle, ensuring that powers not granted to the federal government remain with the states.
4. Federalism creates a dual sovereignty system, meaning both the national and state governments can levy taxes, enforce laws, and regulate commerce.
5. Key debates over federalism were highlighted in The Federalist Papers, particularly in essays by Hamilton and Madison advocating for a strong central government balanced by state powers.

Review Questions

• How did federalism address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation in the governance of the new nation?
  • Federalism addressed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation by creating a stronger national government that could effectively manage issues like taxation, trade, and defense. Under the Articles, the central government lacked authority to enforce laws or collect taxes, leading to chaos and inefficiency. By dividing powers between state and national governments, federalism allowed for more effective governance while still preserving states' rights, creating a more balanced approach.
• In what ways did federalism influence the outcome of events like the Newburgh Conspiracy and the Treaty of Paris?
  • Federalism played a significant role during events such as the Newburgh Conspiracy, where soldiers threatened rebellion due to unpaid wages, highlighting the need for a stronger central authority. The inability of Congress to address these grievances under a confederation prompted calls for federalism. Similarly, the Treaty of Paris required national representation to secure favorable terms with foreign nations, reinforcing the necessity for a federal framework that could engage effectively in international diplomacy.
• Evaluate how federalism has served as a model for other countries seeking to balance local governance with national authority after the American Revolution.
  • Federalism has served as a model for many countries by demonstrating how power can be effectively shared between local and national authorities. The balance achieved in the U.S. Constitution showed other nations that it is possible to address regional interests while maintaining a cohesive national policy. This model has influenced various democratic systems around the world that seek to accommodate diverse populations within a unified governmental structure, illustrating its lasting impact on global governance.

Related terms

Confederation: A union of sovereign groups or states united for purposes of common action, often with limited central authority.

Separation of Powers: The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Checks and Balances: A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful by providing each branch with specific powers to limit the others.