Germany's 16 states (Länder) constitute the country's primary administrative division and hold substantial autonomous powers under the federal system. Each state maintains its own constitution, parliament, and government, with significant authority over education, police, cultural affairs, and regional infrastructure. The states participate directly in federal legislation through the Bundesrat (Federal Council), where they can influence or veto laws affecting their jurisdictions. They collect certain taxes, administer justice through their own court systems, and implement federal laws within their territories. This federal structure reflects Germany's historical composition as a union of formerly independent territories and principalities, preserving regional identity while maintaining national cohesion. The states vary considerably in size and population, from city-states like Bremen to larger territorial states like Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia.