Federalism is an integral part of the growth and development of the United States of America and is a key factor in determining the bases of power in this country. Obviously, the term federalism can be understood in different ways depending on one's perspective, but it can be defined more broadly in terms of the separation between the state and the federal government. Thomas E. Patterson defines federalism as “the division of sovereignty, or ultimate governmental authority, between a national government and regional (i.e., state) governments.” Each governs the people directly and derives his authority from them” (Patterson 74). He then gives a more basic definition: “American federalism is fundamentally a system of divided powers” ​​(Patterson 74). But federalism is much more than just a word with a definition. It's enshrined in the Constitution because the framers knew how important this division of power would be to the development of America and to ensuring that power ultimately returned to the people. The Constitution specifically spells out this division of power in Article I. Patterson points out exactly how federalism is defined in the Constitution: "The United States Constitution deals with the legal authority of the national government, which is vested through enumerated powers and implicit. Authority not granted to the national government is left – or “reserved” – to the states. Thus, the States have reserved powers” ​​(Patterson 77). Specifically, Article I, Section 8 describes enumerated powers granted to Congress, such as the ability to regulate interstate commerce, create a national currency, borrow money, raise taxes , to develop an army and declare war. Additionally, Article I, Sec...... middle of document...... and the federal level to allow for a hierarchy of power. Federalism can take many different forms, ideas, and interpretations, but whatever your preference, divides the power held within our country. In any structure, there must always be a way to distinguish who has authority over another in order to govern effectively. Although there may be cases where federalism does not seem to give us such a simple answer, such as in the case of medical marijuana and universal health care, that does not take away from the fact that it exists and is available for us to meet. on important issues. Without federalism, there would be no hierarchy of power in this country and instead of union, we would have division. This is what makes federalism so important to the United States of America and why we have been able to prosper together as a union..