What does state sovereignty refer to?

State sovereignty refers to the ability of states to govern themselves independently, making their own laws and decisions without interference from the federal government or external authorities. This concept is rooted in the principle that each state has the power to regulate its own affairs and is an essential aspect of the federal system established by the U.S. Constitution.

Understanding state sovereignty is crucial because it underscores the balance of power between the federal government and the states, allowing states to address local issues in ways that reflect their unique populations and circumstances. This independence in governance is a foundational characteristic of federalism, where authority is divided and shared between national and state levels of government.

The other options touch on different aspects of government and citizenry but do not define state sovereignty accurately. The authority of the federal government over states relates more to the powers granted to the federal body rather than the self-governance of states. The rights of citizens living in the states involve individual liberties and protections, which are separate from the overall ability of states to operate independently. The process through which states can amend the Constitution is a procedural mechanism and does not directly pertain to the concept of state sovereignty.