Which concept refers to the division of powers between the national and state governments?

Study for the AP Government and Politics Federalism Test. Analyze questions with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with our resources!

The division of powers between the national and state governments is known as federalism. This concept is foundational to the structure of the United States government, as established by the Constitution. Federalism allows for multiple layers of government, each with its own powers and responsibilities. The national government handles issues that affect the country as a whole, such as defense and foreign affairs, while state governments manage local matters, such as education and transportation.

Federalism promotes a balance of power, enabling both levels of government to operate independently in their respective spheres. This division ensures that governance is more localized, which can lead to more responsive policies that reflect the unique needs of different states and regions.

In contrast, a confederation refers to a union of independent states that delegate certain powers to a central authority, which is typically weaker than its member states. A unitary system centralizes power in a single national government, which may grant limited authority to subnational entities. Centralization refers to the concentration of decision-making authority at a single level of government, which is opposite to the idea of federalism that distributes power across multiple levels.

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