American Federalism: Basics and Evolution

A set of flashcards covering key concepts and vocabulary related to American Federalism.

Federalism

An institutional arrangement that creates two relatively autonomous levels of government, each acting on behalf of the people with authority from the national constitution.

Unitary System

A system of government where authority is concentrated in the central government, such as in the United Kingdom or Japan.

Concurrent Powers

Powers that are shared by both the federal and state governments, such as taxing and establishing courts.

Reserved Powers

Powers that are specifically reserved for the states under the U.S. Constitution.

Categorical Grants

Federal funds given to states or local governments for specific purposes with strict administration.

Block Grants

Federal funds given to states or local governments with less strict administration and greater flexibility.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but inferred from the Elastic Clause.

Dual Federalism

A political system where both the federal and state governments have their own distinct areas of authority.

Cooperative Federalism

A system where federal and state governments work together to solve various issues, often through federal grants.

Devolution

The transfer of power from the central government to state or local governments, notably during Ronald Reagan’s administration.

Obergefell vs. Hodges

The 2015 Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage across the United States.

Race to the bottom

A phenomenon in federalism where states lower taxes and regulations to attract businesses, potentially hurting public welfare.