FORMS of GOVERNMENT SS6CG4: The student will compare and contrast various forms of government.

FORMS of GOVERNMENT SS7CG4: a. Describe the ways government systems distribute power: unitary, confederation, and federal ESSENTIAL QUESTION How is power distributed in different forms of government (unitary, confederation, and federal)?

Social Studies Theme: GOVERNANCE The student will understand that as society increases in complexity and interacts with other societies, the complexity of the government increases.

Types of Distribution There are three (3) basic types of ways in which power is distributed, or spread throughout a government: to spread power throughout government Unitary Confederation Federal These terms are just words to describe WHO has the power in the government, WHO is the decision maker.

Types of Distribution UNITARY: a form of government in which power is held by one central authority Examples of Unitary governments: Dictatorship, absolute monarchy Countries with Unitary governments: North Korea, Saudi Arabia

Types of Distribution Confederation voluntary associations of independent states that, to secure some common purpose, agree to certain limitations on their freedom of action and establish some joint machinery of consultation or deliberation. In simpler terms, it means that groups get together to voluntarily work together for each other’s benefit. It is not required that they work together. Each group may choose to leave the confederation at any time.

Types of Distribution Confederation (continued) Usually created by a treaty, in today’s world, confederations are mostly created for common action towards other states Types of Leaders: Secretary-General (UN) United Nations Example: League of Arab States, OPEC

Types of Distribution Federal: A form of government in which power is divided between one central and several regional authorities Types of leaders: Presidents, Prime Ministers Example of Federal government in ME-Israel

In a unitary government system, most of the power is in the hands of Individual voters Kings and advisors C. Local governments D. Central government

Which of the following countries would be a good example of a unitary government? Israel B. Lebanon C. Saudi Arabia D. United States

In a confederation government, most of the power is in the hands of the Legislature B. Individual voters C. Local governments D. Central government

What is a weakness of a confederation government system? A confederation is very expensive B. Confederations are too large to rule effectively C. A confederation does not share power with its members. D. The central government has only as much power as the local governments are willing to give.

Which Middle Eastern country would be a good example of a federal system of government? Iran B. Israel C. Kuwait D. Saudi Arabia