What is the United States?

The United States of America is a federal republic composed of 50 states, each with its own Constitution and government.

The Federal System

American federalism means that power is shared between:

• The federal government (Washington D.C.)
• 50 state governments
• Thousands of local governments (counties, cities)

The 50 States

Each state has:

• Its own Constitution
• Its own governor and legislature
• Its own laws (which can differ greatly)
• Its own state supreme court

One Country, Many Differences

Laws vary enormously from state to state:

• Taxes: 0% in Texas vs 13% in California
• Guns: Easy permits vs strict restrictions
• Cannabis: Legal in some states, illegal in others
• Marriage, education, healthcare: Different regulations

The Constitution

The US Constitution (1787) is the supreme document that:

• Defines the powers of the federal government
• Protects individual rights
• Limits the power of government
• Is very difficult to amend

Key Points

• The United States is not a centralized country like France
• Each state functions like a small country
• The federal government has limited powers
• The Constitution takes precedence over all laws

Related articles:

• How the US Government Works
• States vs Federal Government