The main difference between federal and confederal systems of government lies in the distribution of power and the authority structure:
In a federal system:
1. There is a centralized authority that governs the entire country.
2. Power is divided between the central government and regional governments (states, provinces, etc.).
3. The central government holds specific powers outlined in the constitution, while regional governments have their own set of powers.
4. Examples of federal systems include the United States, Germany, and Australia.
In a confederal system:
1. Power is primarily held by the regional governments (states, provinces, etc.).
2. There is a weak or limited central authority that serves as an advisory body rather than having significant governing power.
3. Regional governments have more autonomy and authority compared to the central government.
4. The central government relies on the voluntary cooperation of regional governments.
5. An example of a historical confederal system is the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial in grasping how power is distributed and shared within different systems of government.
