"Les opérations du gouvernement fédéral seront les plus étendues et importantes en temps de guerre et de danger; celles des gouvernements des États en temps de paix et de sécurité."
— James Madison
Simplified Meaning:
When there's a war or danger threatening a country, the national government steps in and takes charge. They handle big tasks like the military, national defense, and making sure everyone is safe. For example, during World War II, the US federal government organized the army and managed resources to support the war effort. On the other hand, when everything is calm and safe, local and state governments become more active and important. They take care of everyday things like schools, police, and roads. For instance, after the war, state governments focused on building highways and improving education systems. So, in risky times, the national government is more involved, but in peaceful times, state governments handle the usual needs of people. Understanding this can help you see why different levels of government step up at different times, and why teamwork between them is crucial.
