After reading this chapter, you will be able to

• Identify the three systems of government and how they divide power,
   
• Explain what federalism is and why it was chosen as a system for the United States,
   
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of federalism,
   
• Describe the ways elements in the U.S. Constitution provide a basis for federalism,
   
• Summarize the different types of federalism that developed over time, and
   
• Discuss the Supreme Court’s role in U.S. federalism.