Oklahoma State University – Oklahoma City
American Government POLS-1113-20470
Lecture Notes
Spring 2022
Lecture Three
Contents: cover materials in Chapter 3 – American Federalism
American Government
Lecture Notes #3
During these exciting times, America was going through growing pains regarding what ideologies to
follow and accommodating the masses. Most certainly, our founding fathers did not want what Britain
had bestowed upon them with their tyrannical rule. They want a government that will clarify that all
involved with governing is on the same page.
This chapter begins with discussions about the “division of powers.” Arguments aroused the ideologies
of balancing the forces of decentralization and centralization. We view decentralization as an encounter
between different taxation levels, welfare eligibility requirements, and voting regulations. On the other
hand, we view centralization as an apparent fact that the federal government is the only entity
permitted to print money, challenge the legality of state laws, and distribute “money grants” and
mandates to state governments. Our government is unique because many countries don’t have a
federal structure.
The Constitution reflects directions for the federal to mandate its authority. Enumerated powers of the
national government are explicit in the Constitution. Article 1, Section 8 states that these powers define
the jurisdictional boundaries the federal government has authority. Concurrent powers give
authorization to levy and collet taxes, borrow money, make and enforce laws, establish courts, charter
banks and corporations; and take property for public purpose with just compensation which is called
“eminent domain”.
Our government has struggle between national power and state power. Conflicts began when
Alexander Hamilton wanted to establish a national bank. Thomas Jefferson opposed and said the
federal government does not have the right to establish a national. However, Hamilton convinced
George Washington to sign the establishment of a national bank legistration into law.
Dual federalism became an issue in the late 1870’s. Duel federalism is when the states and national
government exercise exclusive authority in distinctl delineated spheres of jurisdiction. Two factors
contributed to the emergence of dual federalism. The first was the Supreme Court rulings blocked
attempts by both state and federa governments to step outside their jurisdictional boundaries. The
second reasoning was the prevailing economic philosophy at the time loathed government interference
in the process of industrial development.
