Questions and Answers
What was the traditional role of tariffs?
Tariffs traditionally served the dual purposes of raising revenue and protecting American industry from European competitors.
What was the 'Tariff of Abominations'?
The 'Tariff of Abominations' was a protective tariff passed in 1828 that Southern states disdained, arguing it hurt their economy while benefiting the Northeast.
How did VP John C. Calhoun respond to the Tariff of Abominations?
John C. Calhoun anonymously wrote the 'South Carolina Exposition and Protest' in response to the tariff.
How did John C. Calhoun discuss the Doctrine of Nullification?
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What did South Carolina do in response to the Tariff of Abominations?
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How did Jackson respond to the nullification?
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How did Henry Clay respond to the growing tension of the nullification?
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How did Calhoun see nullification?
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How did Jackson view his response to nullification?
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How did Jackson's intuition on nullification turn out?
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Study Notes
The Role of Tariffs
- Tariffs raised revenue and protected American industries from European competition.
- The 1816 tariff averaged 25% on imports; by 1828, it exceeded 50%.
Tariff of Abominations
- The 1828 tariff was labeled the "Tariff of Abominations" by Southern states, particularly South Carolina.
- Southern planters argued the tariff benefitted the industrial Northeast while harming the South, which faced high import costs and a competitive cotton market.
John C. Calhoun's Response
- Vice President John C. Calhoun anonymously authored the "South Carolina Exposition and Protest" to address the tariff's impact.
Doctrine of Nullification
- Calhoun used states' rights arguments from Jefferson and Madison to support the idea that states could nullify federal laws.
- He posited that if federal laws exceeded Congress's powers, states could declare such laws "null and void."
South Carolina's Action
- Motivated by Calhoun, South Carolina's legislature passed an ordinance of nullification against the Tariff of Abominations.
Jackson's Reaction
- President Andrew Jackson fiercely opposed nullification, calling it an "impractical absurdity."
- He warned South Carolina that disunion through armed conflict would be considered treason and sought congressional approval for a "Force Bill" to enforce federal laws.
Henry Clay's Compromise
- In response to escalating tensions, Henry Clay proposed a compromise tariff to gradually lower duties over ten years.
- The compromise led to South Carolina rescinding its nullification ordinance.
Calhoun's Perspective on Nullification
- Calhoun viewed nullification as a means to prevent disunion rather than advocating for secession.
Jackson's Regret
- Reflecting on the nullification crisis later in life, Jackson felt he had not acted decisively enough, even wishing he had executed Calhoun for treason.
Long-term Outcomes
- Jackson's foresight on the issue was evident as, in the 1850s, South Carolina's "fire eaters" moved away from nullification towards secession to address grievances.
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Description
Explore the complexities of tariffs during the Age of Jackson from 1828 to 1844. This quiz focuses on the Tariff of Abominations and the Nullification Crisis, highlighting their impact on American industry and politics. Test your knowledge of this pivotal era in U.S. history.
