Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, InspiringThe focus of political observers on politics and government in the United States, and in many other nations, is the executive branch of the national government. And yet, the most vital decisions of the US government that affect peoples' daily lives happen at the subnational levels. This Very Short Introduction provides an overview of federalism, with a focus on the U.S., but also with case studies of several other nations' federal systems in comparative perspective. It covers the origins and evolution of the federal system, as well as the key events and constitutional decisions that have defined the legal framework for the operation of federalism. The authors raise the provocative question of whether the U.S. federal system is a model for the world.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.