Have you noticed the protestors who believe the states ultimately control America? Are these people correct? Who controls America? It’s not a “who” but a “what,” as we are a nation of laws, not of elected officials’ desires. The U.S. Constitution and the duly elected officials governing under its authority control our government. See Article VI, clause 2.
Historical Perspective
Today’s protestors weren’t the first Americans to want the states to have sovereign freedom, independence, and power. In 1781, all thirteen states ratified the Articles of Confederation.
The Articles of Confederation (our first attempt at a Constitution) allowed each of the 13 states to retain their sovereign freedom, independence, and power. While our country had an official name, “the United States of America,” the very loose Articles only affirmed a “friendship” among the 13 states, not a lasting unity. The tight grip was on the federal government. Does that sound good to you? Read on.
Why the Articles of Confederation Didn’t Work
The Articles of Confederation limited the federal government so much that it couldn’t do what Americans needed it to. Remember Shay’s Rebellion? The federal government was too weak where strength and control were required. This catalyzed Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and other Federalists to advocate for a stronger federal government under a Constitution.
Other Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation
-Each state had one vote, not a bicameral legislature representing the population of each state
-No court system
-No national treasury to pay for essentials
-No president (The “President” was only the head of a committee).
-Canada was invited to join the United States, so no votes were needed. Other territories needed votes to be admitted to the United States.
Strengths of the U.S. Constitution
If the Articles of Confederation couldn’t adequately govern thirteen states, imagine what that would look like now! The Constitution:
-Fosters a lasting bond between the states
-Guarantees a republican form of government (a Constitutional Republic) to each state (see Article IV, section 4)
-The rule of law for adding any additional states (Article IV, section 3)
-A court system (see Article III)
-Appropriations for essentials (Article 1, sections 8 and 9, and Federalist 58)
Conclusion
Hopefully, this civics article clarifies why the federal government has more power than individual states in handling certain situations. It’s essential to remain educated on civic issues. Here are some additional resources for further study:
https://shorturl.at/9P6Ch (simple, helpful video)
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