Constitutional Check: Understanding Article 1 Section 10 and Limited Government in Practice

Article I, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution **limits the powers of the states** by listing certain things that states cannot do (for example, states can't form treaties, coin money, or pass certain types of laws). The underlying principle this section illustrates is **federalism**. **Federalism** is the division of powers between the national government and the states. Article I, Section 10 sets boundaries on state powers, reserving some powers for the federal government only, and thereby reinforcing the federal structure of government. So, **federalism** is the most appropriate principle represented by Article I, Section 10.

Article 1, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution pertains to the principle of Limited Government. It outlines the powers denied to the states, further establishing the balance of power between the Federal government and state governments.