For much of the nation’s history, the states and the nation operated under dual

For much of the nation’s history, the states and the nation operated under dual

For much of the nation’s history, the states and the nation operated under dual federalism, in which each level (Federal, State and Local) tended to exercise influence over different areas of policy. The era of dual federalism allowed for States’ to create policies unique to their state’s culture. This autonomy allowed for some states to exercise their State’s rights to create policies like racial and gender segregation of public spaces.
The boundaries between the authority of national and state governments have changed over time. Many of these changes have come about as a result of Supreme Court decisions finding states were violating the constitutional protections, privlidges, and or immunities of its residents. Historically, the Federal government has intervened on behalf of the residents within a state that are being denied their constitutional rights. The Federal government has also grown in size and in scope after major national catastrophies, for example: The Great Depression; Terrorist Attacks of 9/11/01; The Housing Crash of 2008; and the World Pandemic of COVID-19.
There are benefits and disadvantages to states creating laws for their own residents. There are are disadvantages and benefits to the Federal government creating laws that all states must adhere to.
After reading and viewing/listening to the lectures this week answer the following prompt:
Give one example (in history or current day) where a strong state government is in the best interest of U.S. residents.
Gives one example (in history or current day) where a strong national government is in the best interest of U.S.residents.
In both examples, explain why and cite your lectures and readings where applicable.