What is the difference between nationalism and federalism?

Answer 1

This is a key question when talking about the Constitution and (whether they know it not) political beliefs. Federalism is "A system of government in which power is divided between a national (federal) government and various regional governments. As defined by the United States Constitution, federalism is a fundamental aspect of American government, whereby the states are not merely regional representatives of the federal government, but are granted independent powers and responsibilities. With their own legislative branch, executive branch, and judicial branch, states are empowered to pass, enforce, and interpret laws, provided they do not violate the Constitution. " Nationalism is "The strong belief that the interests of a particular nation-state are of primary importance. Also, the belief that a people who share a common language, history, and culture should constitute an independent nation, free of foreign domination." In other words, Nationalism is the Federal government knows best and should supercede the states laws and regulations. Federalism is the Federal government has their set of responsibilities and rights, but the States should have their own sovereignty to define their own laws for those things not addressed by the Constitution specifically.