1F1 - Federalism Flashcards
What is a government?
An administering authority or political body for a community, society, state, nation, or country.
What is the purpose of a government?
- To protect its people.
- Keep society safe.
- Maintain order and stability.
Why were early governments developed?
To guide and protect people from harm, as well as save them during disasters.
Why is government important?
- Influence the lives of people.
- Determine rights.
- Implement policies.
- Form international partnerships.
- Prevent war.
What are the types of governments around the world?
- Federal republic
- Theocratic republic
- Monarchy
- Constitutional monarchy
- Democracy
- Despotic governments
What is a dictatorship?
One leader or dictator makes all decisions and others must follow.
Dictators are supported by their appointed military who will punish those who do not obey.
What questions can be used to determine if a country is a democracy?
- Are citizens able to vote for a leader that represents their viewpoints?
- Are the human rights of all citizens acknowledged?
- Do citizens feel reasonably safe and protected?
- Does a sense of freedom exist in both private and public spaces?
- Is there a sense of truth and transparency from the government?
What is the role of government?
To keep society organized and safe.
What is a theocratic republic government?
Leaders in a religious order are elected to represent the people.
What is a constitutional monarchy?
Rule by a single leader, but their power is limited by a constitution that gives rights to the people.
What is a democracy?
A system in which people can vote on laws and have power in the government, ensuring that their opinions are heard.
What is a federal system of government?
A system with a central government and semi-autonomous states/provinces.
Federal governments usually exist in geographically diverse nations.
What is the opposite of a federal government?
A highly centralized government.
In highly centralized governments, regional and local governments have little or no autonomy from the central government.
What are the key components of a federal government?
- Made up of various states or provinces.
- Subordinate to the central government.
The principles of a federal government are usually found in the government’s constitution.
What are the three branches of the federal government in the United States?
- Executive branch
- Legislative branch
- Judicial branch
What does the 10th Amendment to the Constitution grant individual states?
The right to make their own laws, as long as they do not conflict with the Constitution or other federal regulations.
This ensures that no state government may violate federal law or take on responsibilities specifically allotted to the federal government.
What are some limitations of a federal government?
- Large and wealthy states may have more influence over the central government than smaller states.
- Many state and local governments may prevent needed action in times of crisis.
What are two important advantages of a federal system?
- Allows for diversity and flexibility, as regional governments can cater to local preferences and conditions.
- Encourages political participation and innovation by providing multiple layers of governance.
What document eventually led to the creation of the U.S. Constitution?
Articles of Confederation
