Lesson 71 of 84 · The Constitution
⭐ 30 XP🏛️ Civic SquareFederalism: Shared Power
Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units, like states.
🎯 Your mission
Spot the fair part. Spot the unfair part.
⚡ The twist
Laws change. Power changes who gets to change them.
Mind = Blown
🤯 In ancient Athens, 'democracy' only included about 10% of the people.
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 divided between a central authority and smaller political units, like states. In the United States, the Constitution establishes federalism by granting certain powers to the national government, such as regulating interstate commerce and conducting foreign affairs, while reserving other powers for the states, like education and local law enforcement. This division of power allows for a balance that can address both local needs and national interests, creating a more effective governance structure.
Key Facts
Federalism divides power between the national government and the states.
The national government handles foreign affairs and interstate commerce.
States have powers related to education and local law enforcement.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2What is 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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