What was the original meaning of the word federalism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The original meaning of federalism referred to a system of government that was based on the idea of a treaty, compact, or covenant between individual states or regions. The emphasis was on a voluntary association between independent entities, united for common purposes such as defense or trade. Over time, the meaning of federalism expanded to include the idea of a division of powers between levels of government (B) and the separation of powers (C). However, the original meaning of a voluntary association of sovereign entities remains an important part of the concept of federalism.

What Was the Original Meaning of the Word Federalism