Federalism in the United States

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/federalism-in-the-united-states

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. Where is Federalism in the United States?North America, encompassing 50 states, a federal district, and several territories
2. How many people live in Federalism in the United States?Approximately 331.9 million (as of 2021)
3. What is the capital of Federalism in the United States?Washington, D.C
4. Why do states have their own laws about things like schools?States have what are called police powers, which let them create laws to keep people healthy, safe, and well. This includes rules for schools, local roads, and police. It helps each state meet the needs of its own community.
5. How did the Civil War change federalism?The Civil War proved that the United States is one indivisible country. It made the federal government the supreme authority over all states. This helped keep the Union together.

Sovereignty: The supreme power or authority of a state to govern itself or another state.
Enumerated Powers: Powers specifically listed in the Constitution as belonging to the federal government.
Reserved Powers: Powers not specifically given to the federal government, nor denied to the states, are reserved for the states or the people.
Supremacy Clause: Article VI of the Constitution, establishing that federal laws and the Constitution are the supreme law of the land.