The main focus of this chapter is on the development and evolution of federalism. It reviews the constitutional debate in 1787 over the relationship between the nation and the states describing how the issue of federalism helped shape the Constitution. The chapter's concluding sections discuss how federalism has changed during the nation's history with an overview of contemporary federalism. The chapter's main points are:
- The power of government must be equal to its responsibilities. The Constitution was needed because the nation's preceding system (under the Articles of Confederation) was too weak to accomplish its expected goals, particularly those of a strong defense and an integrated economy.
- Federalism--the Constitution's division of governing authority between two levels, nation and states--was the result of political bargaining. Federalism was not a theoretical principle, but a compromise made necessary in 1787 by the prior existence of the states.
- Federalism is not a fixed principle for allocating power between the national and state governments, but a principle that has changed over the course of time in response to changing political needs. Federalism has passed through several distinct stages during the nation's history.
- Contemporary American federalism tilts toward national authority, reflecting the increased interdependence of American society. However, there is a current trend toward reducing the scope of federal authority.
After reading this chapter students should be able to
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