What system of government where power is located with the independent states and there is little power in the central government?

The system of government where power is primarily held by independent states with limited authority in the central government is known as a confederation. In a confederation, the central government typically has restricted powers, often focusing on issues like defense and foreign policy, while individual states retain significant autonomy and control over their own affairs. This structure contrasts with federal systems, where power is more evenly distributed between the central authority and the states. Historical examples of confederations include the Articles of Confederation in the United States before the Constitution was adopted.