Learning Objectives

  • 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.