Understanding Federalism: Sharing Power in Government

🔑Federalism is a system where political power is shared between the national government and sub-unit governments.

🌐The US Constitution established a powerful central government, but also divided political authority to avoid abuse of power.

💼Concurrent powers are those that can be exercised by both the federal and state governments, such as collecting taxes and making laws.

💡Delegated powers are specifically given to the federal government, while powers retained by states include regulating commerce and conducting elections.

🏛️Federalism is different from unitary and confederal systems of government, offering a balance of power and local autonomy.

What is federalism?

—Federalism is a system where political power is divided between the national government and sub-unit governments, ensuring a balance of power and shared decision-making.

Why was federalism created in the US?

—Federalism was created in the US to establish a powerful central government while avoiding the abuse of power. It allows for independent decision-making by both the federal and state governments.

What are concurrent powers?

—Concurrent powers are those that can be exercised by both the federal and state governments, such as collecting taxes and making laws. They promote cooperation and coordination between the two levels of government.

What are delegated powers?

—Delegated powers are those specifically given to the federal government, such as the power to regulate commerce and make treaties. State governments retain powers not granted to the federal government.

How is federalism different from other systems of government?

—Federalism is different from unitary and confederal systems of government. It offers a balance of power between the central government and sub-unit governments, providing local autonomy and regional representation.

00:00Federalism is a system where political power is shared between the national government and sub-unit governments.

00:16The US Constitution established a powerful central government, but also divided political authority to avoid abuse of power.

00:36Concurrent powers are those that can be exercised by both the federal and state governments, such as collecting taxes and making laws.

01:00Delegated powers are specifically given to the federal government, while powers retained by states include regulating commerce and conducting elections.

02:48Federalism is different from unitary and confederal systems of government, offering a balance of power and local autonomy.