What is meant by the term federalism?

Federalism refers to a system of governance in which power is divided between a central (national) government and various regional (state) governments. This division of power allows for multiple levels of government to exist simultaneously and operate independently within their respective spheres of authority.

In the context of the United States, federalism allows states to enact laws and policies that are tailored to their specific needs while still being governed by overarching federal laws. This balance between national and state authority is crucial for maintaining local governance while ensuring a unified national policy on issues that transcend state boundaries.

Understanding federalism is fundamental to grasping how the U.S. political system functions, as it reflects the founders' intention to limit the power of a central government while still enabling it to maintain authority over certain matters. It illustrates the complexity of governance in a diverse country, where local needs may differ significantly from national priorities. This division is foundational to the Constitution and is what allows for both a unity of purpose and the recognition of regional diversity.