Final answer:
The framers of the Constitution created a federal system of government that shifted power from the states to the federal government while still respecting state sovereignty. The commerce clause and mandates have been used to expand federal power over the states, while block grants and Supreme Court decisions have contributed to the devolution of power from the national government to the states.
Step-by-step explanation:
The framers of the Constitution created a federal system of government that changed the relationship between the national and state governments. Under the Articles of Confederation, states were sovereign and powerful, while the national government was weak. However, the Constitution shifted more power to the federal government while still respecting the role of the states.
(a) Under the Articles of Confederation, states were independent entities with supreme authority. The national government had limited powers and lacked a president or federal courts. In contrast, the Constitution gave more authority to the federal government while still recognizing the sovereignty of the states.
(b) The commerce clause and mandates have been used to expand the power of the federal government over the states. The commerce clause grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, which has allowed the federal government to pass laws that impact state regulations. Mandates, on the other hand, are requirements imposed on states by the federal government, which can influence state actions and policies.
(c) Block grants and Supreme Court decisions have played a role in the devolution of power from the national government to the states. Block grants provide states with flexibility in using federal funds, allowing them to have more control over how the funds are allocated. Supreme Court decisions can also impact the division of powers between the federal and state governments, as the Court's interpretations can shape the balance of authority.