Subject
Nullification (States' rights) Books
Best books
Jefferson Davis
Speeches of the Hon. Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi; delivered during the summer of 1858.
"Speeches of the Honorable Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi; delivered during the summer of 1858" is a collection of speeches and addresses made by Jefferson Davis, likely compiled in the mid-19th century. This work provides insights into Davis's political views and sentiments during a pivotal time in American history, particularly as sectional tensions were mounting toward the American Civil War. The speeches reflect his positions on various issues, including state rights, national unity, and the institution of slavery, representing the voice of a Southern leader during an era of conflict. The beginning of the work introduces Jefferson Davis's intentions for compiling his speeches, prompted by misrepresentations of his views at both the North and the South. It outlines the significant occasions on which these speeches were delivered, with emphasis on his address on Independence Day at sea, where he reflects on the unity and progress of the United States, contrasting it with the challenges faced by the nation. The opening portion showcases his eloquent and passionate rhetoric, addressing topics of national pride, the importance of unity among the states, and the rights of Southern citizens while asserting the necessity for strong national governance amid growing sectional divides. Through his words, Davis articulates both his personal reflections and broader political themes that resonate with the historical context of his time.
John C. (John Caldwell) Calhoun
Remarks of Mr. Calhoun of South Carolina on the bill to prevent the interference of certain federal officers in elections: delivered in the Senate of the United States February 22, 1839
"Remarks of Mr. Calhoun of South Carolina on the bill to prevent the…" is a historical account written by John C. Calhoun in the early 19th century. This book captures Calhoun's passionate defense of the doctrine of nullification, arguing against federal overreach as it relates to states’ rights and the economic burdens imposed on Southern states. It reflects the intense political climate of the time, particularly the tensions between federal authority and state sovereignty. In this speech delivered in the U.S. Senate on February 15, 1833, Calhoun outlines his opposition to the proposed bill aimed at enforcing federal laws in South Carolina which he views as unconstitutional. He asserts that the state possesses the right to nullify federal laws that are deemed oppressive and unfair. Throughout his arguments, Calhoun articulates a distinction between a union of states and an aggregate of individuals, advocating for a system where state sovereignty is paramount. He draws analogies to the American Revolution to highlight the struggle between liberty and governmental power. The speech serves as a crucial examination of the philosophical underpinnings of federalism and states' rights that would continue to influence American political discourse leading up to the Civil War.
Caleb William Loring
Nullification, Secession, Webster's Argument, and the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions Considered in Reference to the Constitution and Historically
"Nullification, Secession, Webster's Argument, and the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions" by Caleb William Loring is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book examines the constitutional debates surrounding nullification and secession in the context of the United States' formation and the preservation of the Union. It specifically focuses on the arguments presented by Daniel Webster in response to southern claims of state sovereignty, particularly those advanced by Robert Hayne and John C. Calhoun, and explores the interpretation of the Constitution through a historical lens. The opening of this work introduces the author's motivation to address a perceived misrepresentation of Webster's stance on the nullification doctrine, which was often defended by southern contemporaries. Loring lays the groundwork by highlighting the debates of the early 19th century, notably the fierce exchanges between Webster and Hayne in the Senate regarding the legitimacy of state rights to secede from the Union. He argues that the Union was intended to be national and indissoluble, thereby challenging the notion that states had the authority to nullify federal laws or secede from the Union. This perspective sets the stage for a deeper exploration of constitutional interpretation and the historical context of these contentious issues.
Alexander Hill Everett
Strictures on Nullification
"Strictures on Nullification" by Alexander Hill Everett is a political treatise written in the early 19th century. The work critically addresses the contentious issue of nullification as it emerged in discussions around tariff laws and states' rights, particularly focusing on actions taken by South Carolina. The text likely serves as a response to arguments made by notable politicians of the time, underscoring the author's commitment to the principles laid out in the U.S. Constitution. The opening of the work sets the stage for a profound examination of the concept of nullification, which South Carolina had begun advocating as a means to reject federal tariff laws. Everett details the state’s actions, including the summoning of a legislature and the formation of a convention aimed at passing an 'Ordinance to nullify' said laws. He challenges the legal justifications for such actions, arguing that they contradict constitutional principles and would ultimately be both impractical and detrimental to the stability of the nation. Throughout, he engages with the intellectual underpinnings of nullification, dissecting the claims put forth by its supporters while maintaining that true authority rests with the federal system established by the Constitution.
Recently surfaced classics