What is Federalism and Why Did the Founding Fathers Create It?

Queen Elizabeth II on the balcony at Buckingham Palace after her coronation, 2nd June 1953. With her are (left to right) : Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. (Photo by Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Founding Fathers

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HISTORY

1813

America’s Founding Fathers decided that one elected civilian—the U.S. president—would lead the executive branch of the federal government, a governmental structure that has remained in place for more than 200 years.

U.S. Presidents

The U.S. government, with its three branches of government and a system of checks and balances, is responsible for governing the 50 states and all districts and territories of the United States.

U.S. Government and Politics

The Revolutionary War waged by the American colonies against Britain influenced political ideas and revolutions around the globe, as a small fledgling nation won its freedom from the greatest military force of its time.

American Revolution

1775

1777

1776

Explore the wars, battles, leaders, civilizations, regimes, prominent figures and major events from the continent that encompasses 2 percent of the Earth’s surface. From Stonehenge to the Great Awakening to the French Revolution to the rise and fall of Communism in Russia, see how Europe’s often tumultuous history unfolded.

European History

The U.S. Constitution, signed on September 17, 1787, created America’s federal government, established fundamental laws and legal structures while guaranteeing certain basic rights for American citizens.

Founding Fathers

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Continental Congress

Thomas Paine

Patrick Henry

Stories

5 Founding Fathers Whose Finances Shaped the American Revolution

The Founding Fathers Feared Political Factions Would Tear the Nation Apart

What Happened to Aaron Burr After He Killed Alexander Hamilton in a Duel?

Caesar Who? The Founding Father You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

This Day in History

Thomas Paine publishes “Common Sense”

Thomas Paine publishes “The American Crisis”

Robert R. Livingston, aka “The Chancellor,” dies

South Carolina’s Edward Rutledge opposes independence

Articles of Confederation submitted to the states

Articles of Confederation adopted