What is federalism?

• A. The separation of powers within the executive branch
• B. A unitary system with central control
• C. The division of power between national and state governments
• D. A confederation of independent states

Answer: (C)

Federalism is the division of power between national and state governments, with each level having sovereignty over different areas. The national government handles powers delegated by the Constitution, such as defense and interstate commerce, while states retain authority over local matters like education and public safety. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not specifically granted to the national government for the states, and the Supremacy Clause resolves conflicts when national and state laws intersect. This setup is different from a unitary system, which concentrates power at a central level, and from a confederation, where states hold most power and the central authority is weak. Federalism allows states to experiment with policies and serve as laboratories of democracy while maintaining national unity.