Chapter Study OutlineIntroduction Show
One great achievement of the American founding was the creation of an effective constitutional structure of political institutions. Two important aspects of the U.S. Constitution—federalism and the separation of powers—represent, in part, the framers’ efforts to divide governmental power. Federalism limits government by creating two sovereign powers—the national government and state governments—thereby restraining the influence of both. Separation of powers imposes internal limits by dividing government against itself, giving different branches separate functions and forcing them to share power.
What did the founding fathers think about federalism?Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and George Washington were advocates of the federal system. In their attempt to balance order with liberty, the Founders identified several reasons for creating a federalist government: to avoid tyranny. to allow more participation in politics.
How does the US federal government use fiscal federalism to get states to do what it wants?Fiscal federalism is the model of spending, taxing, and providing grants in the federal government system. The national government's primary means of influencing state governments is giving money to states in the form of grants-in-aid.
How does fiscal federalism affect the relationship between the federal and state governments?The field of fiscal federalism studies how to divide responsibilities (including finances) among federal, state, and local governments to improve economic efficiency and achieve various public policy objectives.
Why does the federal government make grants in aid to the states?The federal government awards hundreds of billions of dollars in grants to state and local governments each year. These grants help finance a broad range of services, including health care, education, social services, infrastructure, and public safety.
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