What is the basic principle that splits power between the national and state governments called?

• A. Federalism
• B. Unitarianism
• C. Monarchy
• D. Sovereignty

Answer: (A)

The division of power between national and state governments is described by federalism. This system sets up two levels of government with distinct and shared powers, so the national government handles national concerns like defense and interstate commerce, while states manage local matters such as education and policing. The Tenth Amendment reinforces this by saying powers not delegated to the federal government belong to the states or the people. Other terms describe different ideas—unitarianism concentrates power in one place, monarchy is rule by a king, and sovereignty refers to supreme authority—so federalism best captures how authority is split across levels in the United States.