State

Definition

A state refers to an organized political community within a country, usually possessing its own government and having the power to make and enforce laws.

Related terms

Federalism: This term refers to a system of government where power is divided between a central authority (federal government) and individual units (states).

Sovereignty: This term refers to the supreme power or authority that a state has over itself, allowing it to govern independently.

Compact Theory: This theory suggests that the United States was formed by an agreement among sovereign states, giving them ultimate authority over the federal government.