National versus State Government
The first type of government in America
was based primarily on state government. Prior to the signing of the
Constitution, America had been made up of thirteen colonies, which had
been ruled by England. Following the Revolutionary War, these colonies,
although they had formed a league of friendship under the Articles of
Confederation, basically governed themselves. They feared a strong central
government like the one they lived with under England's rule. However,
it was soon discovered that this weak form of state government could
not survive and so the Constitution was drafted. The Constitution:
- defines and limits the power of the national
government,
- defines the relationship between the national
government and individual state governments, and
- guarantees the rights of the citizens of the
United States.
This time, it was decided that a
government system based on federalism
would be established. In other words, power is shared between the national
and state (local) governments. The opposite of this system of government
is a centralized government, such as in France and Great Britain, where
the national government maintains all power.
Sharing power between the national government
and state governments allows us to enjoy the benefits of diversity and
unity. For example, the national government may set a uniform currency
system. Could you imagine having 50 different types of coins, each with
a different value? You would need to take along a calculator to go shopping
in another state. By setting up a national policy, the system is fair
to everyone and the states do not have to bear the heavy burden of regulating
their currency.
On the other hand, issues such as the death penalty
have been left up to the individual states. The decision whether or
not to have a death penalty, depends on that state's history, needs,
and philosophies.
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Page Name: http://bensguide.gpo.gov/9-12/government/federalism.html