What has been a historical characteristic of U.S. federalism?

The historical characteristic of U.S. federalism that stands out is the recurring conflicts over state versus federal powers. This has been a prominent feature since the founding of the nation, as the Constitution created a system that delineated authorities between national and state governments.

These conflicts manifest in various forms, ranging from legal disputes to political disagreements, where states often challenge the scope and reach of federal regulations. Landmark Supreme Court cases, such as McCulloch v. Maryland and Gibbons v. Ogden, illustrate how the balance of power has been contested and clarified over time as different interests and interpretations of the Constitution have emerged.

This ongoing tension reflects the dynamic nature of federalism in the U.S., where states seek to assert their rights and autonomy, particularly in areas like education, healthcare, and civil rights, while the federal government works to maintain a unified national policy. This characteristic of conflict illustrates not only the complexity of governance in the U.S. but also the intentional design of federalism to allow for a balance of power that can adapt to changing political and social landscapes.