Final Answer:
The power to declare war is a federal power because it involves matters of national security, foreign relations, and the overall well-being of the entire nation. On the other hand, states have the power to establish schools as education is a matter that directly impacts the local communities and falls under the purview of state governance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The power to declare war is a critical federal power vested in the U.S. Constitution primarily to ensure a unified and coordinated response to external threats. War and foreign relations are complex matters that require a centralized decision-making authority to represent the entire nation's interests. By consolidating this power at the federal level, the framers of the Constitution aimed to avoid potential conflicts and inconsistencies that might arise if individual states had the authority to engage in war independently. This federal power ensures a unified defense strategy, safeguarding the nation as a whole.
On the other hand, the power of states to establish schools is rooted in the principle of local governance and the idea that education policies should be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of individual states and communities. Education is a fundamental aspect of societal development, and allowing states to control their educational systems enables them to address local challenges, adapt to regional cultural differences, and respond to the unique needs of their residents. This decentralized approach empowers states to shape educational policies that align with their specific priorities and values.
In summary, the division of powers regarding war declaration and education reflects the Founding Fathers' intent to strike a balance between centralized authority for matters of national significance and decentralized governance for issues affecting local communities.