Domestic Politics 1801–1848 - AP U.S. History

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"If it be conceded, as it must be by every one who is the least conversant with our institutions, that the sovereign powers delegated are divided between the General and State Governments, and that the latter hold their portion by the same tenure as the former, it would seem impossible to deny to the States the right of deciding on the infractions of their powers, and the proper remedy to be applied for their correction. The right of judging, in such cases, is an essential attribute of sovereignty, of which the States cannot be divested without losing their sovereignty itself, and being reduced to a subordinate corporate condition." - John C. Calhoun, South Carolina Exposition and Protest, 1828

"My experience in public concerns and the observation of a life somewhat advanced confirm the opinions long since imbibed by me, that the destruction of our State governments or the annihilation of their control over the local concerns of the people would lead directly to revolution and anarchy, and finally to despotism and military domination. In proportion, therefore, as the General Government encroaches upon the rights of the States, in the same proportion does it impair its own power and detract from its ability to fulfill the purposes of its creation. " - President Andrew Jackson, Second Inaugural Address, 1833

Which controversial act of government is Calhoun responding to in his speech?

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Answer

The Tariff of 1828 negatively affected the Southern economy and was the proximate cause of the nullification crisis that Calhoun's speech presages.

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