Centralization and decentralization are two systems of government. Within the framework of the first concept, it is stipulated that government authority takes part in the general regulation of public life. Along with this, she seeks to guide the activities of territorial authorities, subordinating to her direct influence many or all aspects of territorial life. Decentralization of management provides a distinction between the activities of local and state authorities. This concept is somewhat related to the term "self-government", however, it is not identical to it. Decentralization is a broader concept, in view of the fact that it provides for the complete autonomy of regions, a federal system. Moreover, self-government presupposes a mandatory dependence on a single legislative power. At the same time, such a phenomenon is permissible only in one part of the state, for one or several of its territories.
Initially, centralization and decentralization had different development and distribution throughout the territory. Given the insufficient number of communication routes, a consistent increase in state power with the subsequent distribution of its influence on all aspects of the country's life was impossible. Along with this, a certain part of the population, representing the ruling circles, aspired to it. In the formation of a single regulatory system, the authorities saw a political and economic means of exploiting the masses.
Centralization and decentralization were isolated in the ancient oppressive states. So, the authorities appointed satraps (rulers) in separate provinces, demanded troops and money from them. At the same time, the authorities could not exercise control over their activities. The rulers on their territories possessed almost complete independence.
Centralization and decentralization in the Roman Empire were somewhat balanced. Despite the autocratic system and the fact that the provinces were formed only to maintain a unified state power, the state recognized self-government in cities and provinces.
After the fall of the Roman Empire throughout Europe (with the exception of Byzantium), the political system did not provide for centralization. This was characteristic of many states of that time. Under the feudal system, there were also no conditions for the formation of a central system. Along with this, the developing royal power strove for it. For example, in France she achieved the greatest success. Subsequently, the principles of the French monarchy formed the basis of the republic. But under the republican state system in France, the principle of sovereignty is also used. However, managerial authority is under the control of a single state authority. At the same time, self-government is underdeveloped here.
Consistent centralization became possible only in the 19th century. Favorable conditions were formed during this period, in particular, communication lines arose and were well developed, the telegraph and mail functioned correctly.
It should be noted that certain state structures, in connection with their properties, can normally exist only under centralized management. These structures include the army, international trade, the navy and others. Means of communication (telegraph, post office), communication lines (railways) also cannot be without loss provided to the authorities, whose competence extends to a small area. The existence and development of these areas require funding, the management of which is carried out according to one principles, one power.
