Lesson 7 of 84 · The Constitution
⭐ 30 XP🏛️ Civic SquareFederalism: Shared Power
Federalism is a system of government in which power is shared between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states.
🎯 Your mission
Learn how the rule got made — and who it serves.
⚡ The twist
Laws change. Power changes who gets to change them.
Mind = Blown
🤯 Women in New Zealand could vote 27 years before women in the US.
Then & Now
🏛️ The rule you'll meet today is still on the books — sort of.
Federalism is a system of government in which power is shared between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states. The Constitution establishes a federal system that delineates the powers of the national government while reserving certain powers for the states. This division of responsibilities allows for a balance between national priorities and local needs. For example, the federal government handles issues such as national defense and immigration, whereas states regulate education and transportation. By creating a federation, the Constitution aims to preserve the autonomy of states while ensuring that the nation can operate effectively as a unified entity.
Key Facts
Federalism divides power between national and state governments.
The Constitution reserves certain powers for the states.
Federalism allows for a balance of national and local needs.
Timeline
The Civil War ends; slavery is abolished
The Transcontinental Railroad is completed
Women gain the right to vote (19th Amendment)
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2What is the main characteristic of federalism?
Why this still matters
Your school has rules. Where do they come from? Who decides them?
Stretch Challenge
Try this in real life this week.
Make up a fair rule for your family. Pitch it.
For the dinner table
“What's one rule at our house you'd change if you could vote on it?”
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