Which term describes the division of powers between the national government and regional governments?

• A. Separation of powers
• B. Bill of Rights
• C. Federalism
• D. Power of judicial review

Answer: (C)

Dividing authority between the national government and regional governments is described by federalism. Federalism sets up distinct levels of government, each with its own defined powers in the constitution, and may include shared or concurrent powers. This arrangement lets the national government handle matters of national importance while regional governments address local or regional needs. Countries like the United States, Canada, Germany, and Australia operate under federal systems, though the exact distribution of powers can vary. This is different from separation of powers, which focuses on how a single government splits authority among branches (legislative, executive, judicial) rather than across levels of government. A Bill of Rights protects individual rights, and judicial review concerns courts determining whether laws or actions conform to the constitution, not how power is divided between levels.