What system of government involves a division of power between national and state governments?

The correct answer is federalism. This system of government is characterized by the division of powers and responsibilities between a central (national) government and smaller political units, such as states. In a federal system, both levels of government exercise authority over the same territory and the same people, each having its own powers that cannot be encroached upon by the other.

Federalism allows for a balance of power, enabling local governments to address local issues while the national government can handle matters that affect the country as a whole. The U.S. Constitution is a prime example of federalism, as it clearly delineates the powers reserved for the states and those that belong to the federal government.

In contrast, a unitary system centralizes power in a single national government, which can delegate authority to local governments but retains the ultimate authority. A confederal system consists of a union of sovereign states that delegate limited powers to a central authority, often leading to a weaker central government. A monarchy, on the other hand, is a form of government where a single ruler holds significant power, typically inherited, and does not involve the cooperative framework seen in federalism.