AP Government - Federalism Part II: Topics 1.7 to 1.9 [Everything You Need to Know]

Introduction

This tutorial aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Federalism as discussed in Mr. Raymond's video on AP Government. It covers key concepts and historical developments related to Federalism, making it a valuable resource for students preparing for the AP Government exam.

Step 1: Understand the Nature of Federalism

• Changing Nature: Federalism has evolved over time. Be aware of how its meaning and implementation have shifted in response to historical events and societal needs.
• Sovereignty: Recognize that sovereignty refers to the authority of a state to govern itself. In the U.S., sovereignty is divided between national and state governments.

Step 2: Explore Dual Federalism

• Definition: Dual Federalism, often called Layer Cake Federalism, describes a clear division of responsibilities between national and state governments.
• Reasons for Dual Federalism: Understand the historical context and reasons for this division:
  • Limited government intervention
  • Distinct roles for state and federal authorities

Step 3: Examine Key Historical Events

• Nullification Crisis and Compact Theory: Learn about the Nullification Crisis where states attempted to invalidate federal laws, reflecting tensions in federalism.
• Impact of the Civil War: Analyze how the Civil War and President Lincoln's policies shifted power dynamics between state and federal governments.

Step 4: Amendments and Their Impact

• 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments: Study how these amendments expanded federal power and protected individual rights.
  • 13th Amendment: Abolished slavery
  • 14th Amendment: Incorporated rights against state infringement, including the Equal Protection Clause
  • 15th Amendment: Granted voting rights regardless of race

Step 5: Review Landmark Supreme Court Cases

• Plessy v. Ferguson: Understand the ruling that upheld racial segregation laws under the doctrine of "separate but equal."
• Gitlow v. New York: Recognize the case's role in applying the First Amendment to state laws.
• McDonald v. Chicago: Note the incorporation of the Second Amendment at the state level.

Step 6: Analyze Economic Changes and Federalism

• Industrial Revolution's Impact: Understand how economic changes led to increased federal involvement in regulating the economy.
• Progressive Era Amendments:
  • 16th Amendment: Authorized income tax
  • 17th Amendment: Established direct election of senators

Step 7: Understand Cooperative Federalism

• Definition: Cooperative Federalism, or Marble Cake Federalism, describes a system where state and federal governments work together.
• Examples: Learn about major federal programs like Social Security and the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Step 8: Examine Recent Developments in Federalism

• LBJ's Great Society: Study the expansion of federal programs aimed at reducing poverty.
• Devolution: Investigate the shift towards giving more power to states, initiated by leaders like Nixon and Reagan.
• Unfunded Mandates: Understand the implications of laws like the Clean Air Act and Americans With Disabilities Act on state budgets.

Step 9: Review the Role of Federalism in Contemporary Issues

• Post-9/11 and Financial Crisis: Assess how these events influenced federalism and increased national authority.
• U.S. v. Lopez: Explore the limitations of the Commerce Clause in federal powers.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding Federalism involves recognizing its historical evolution, key amendments, landmark court cases, and contemporary issues. For students preparing for the AP Government exam, a solid grasp of these concepts is crucial. To deepen your knowledge, consider reviewing the provided resources or engaging with additional lesson plans and activities.