Historical Processes of Classical Federalism Formation

United States of America

Abstract

Any study of federalism will inevitably analyze the American system for the contingent and circumstantial experience, which has relevance for contemporary federal models, despite the warnings of some authors that the structures of this system are in fact consociational, decentralized or simply democratic, which lends itself to ambiguities. The character and objectives of federalism have existed independently of the Constitution throughout its history, so it can also be addressed under the approach of individual and collective identities, including political ones. The aim of the study is to examine succinctly the historical processes of the formation of classical federalism. As a result of circumstances, the gestation and value of political ideas and their subsequent application led to practical experiences of federalism. Given that the idea of federalism has acquired different nuances throughout history and that some defining characteristics are linked to its historical growth, it is useful to review this evolution in an agile manner.