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Federalism: A Very Short Introduction provides a concise overview of the principles and operations of federalism, the political system defined by power sharing between a national government and its subnational units, from its origins and evolution to the key events and constitutional decisions that have defined its framework. While the primary focus is on the United States, a comparative analysis of other federal systems, including those of Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Nigeria, and Switzerland, is provided. The role of federal government is explained alongside the critical roles of state and local governments. This VSI also examines whether federal structures are viable in an era of increasingly centralized and authoritarian-style government. ...Less

The U.S. Constitution: A Very Short Introduction explores the major themes of American constitutional history—federalism, the balance of powers, property, representation, equality, rights, and security. Informed by the latest scholarship, each theme illustrates how the Constitution has served as a dynamic framework for legitimating power and advancing liberty. Today, we face serious challenges to the nation’s constitutional legacy. Endless wars, a sharply divided electorate and deadlocked government, economic inequality, immigration, cybersecurity and privacy, and foreign interference in the nation’s democratic processes have placed demands on government and on society that test our constitutional values. Understanding how the Constitution has evolved will help us adapt its principles to the challenges of our age. ...Less