Question 17

The U.S. Constitution reflects the principle of federalism.

The U.S. Constitution establishes a system of government that divides powers between the national and state governments, embodying the principle of federalism.

A) Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence primarily articulates the colonies' reasons for separating from British rule and does not establish a framework for government or the division of powers, thus it does not reflect federalism.

B) Articles of Confederation

While the Articles of Confederation do represent an early attempt at federal governance, they ultimately created a weak central government and did not effectively embody the principle of federalism as seen in the later U.S. Constitution.

C) U.S. Constitution

The U.S. Constitution explicitly outlines the separation of powers and responsibilities between the federal and state governments, making it the definitive document that reflects the principle of federalism.

D) Mayflower Compact

The Mayflower Compact was an early agreement for self-governance by the Pilgrims, but it does not reflect federalism as it does not establish a division of powers between different levels of government.

Conclusion

The U.S. Constitution is the only document among the options that systematically defines the framework of federalism by delineating the powers of the national and state governments. In contrast, the other options either do not establish a governance framework or do not embody the federal structure, confirming that the Constitution is the correct answer.