Federalism in American Government

Flashcards reviewing key vocabulary and concepts related to federalism in American government.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a national government and states.

Sovereign

Having ultimate authority or power in a particular sphere.

Unitary System

A system of government where the national government has all governmental power.

Confederacy

A system of government where sovereignty is vested only in state governments.

10th Amendment

Part of the Constitution that reserves to the states powers not granted to the federal government.

Supremacy Clause

Art. VI of the Constitution, declaring that federal law is the supreme law of the land.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to declare laws unconstitutional.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Clause that grants Congress the power to create laws deemed necessary and proper for executing its powers.

Fiscal Federalism

Federal funding of state and local government programs.

Devolution

The transfer of authority from the federal government to state governments.