Understanding Federalism in the United States

The video explains the concept of federalism, focusing on the relationship between the federal and state governments in the United States. It discusses the independence and subordination of state governments, the varying levels of authority between federal and state governments, and the historical context of federalism in the US.

What is the basic idea behind federalism as discussed in the video?

• A single government with no subdivisions

• A government system without any central authority

• A central government with constituent governments beneath it

• A system where state governments have more power than the central government

In the U.S. federalism system, how are state governments described in relation to the federal government?

• Not recognized by the federal government

• More powerful than the federal government

• Intertwined and mostly subordinate to federal laws

• Completely independent and not subject to federal laws

What does the concept of federalism in the U.S. signify about state governments?

• They are completely dependent on the federal government

• They have no authority of their own

• They are independent from the federal government

• They are not allowed to make their own laws

How has the balance of power between federal and state governments evolved in U.S. history?

• Federal government has never had any power

• State governments have always had more power

• It has been a constant back and forth struggle

• It has remained constant with federal government always having more power

What is a key characteristic of federalism in the United States?

• State governments are not recognized by the federal government

• State governments are completely independent of federal laws

• Federal government has no authority over state governments

• There is a balance of power between federal and state governments