how did John Calhoun react to the tariff of 1828
John C. Calhoun, who was then the Vice President of the United States, reacted to the Tariff of 1828, also known as the "Tariff of Abominations," in a complex and significant manner. Initially, Calhoun publicly supported the tariff as a way to promote American manufacturing and protect domestic industries. However, his position shifted over time as he grew more concerned about the negative impact the tariff had on the Southern agricultural economy, particularly the cotton growers.
Calhoun, a native of South Carolina and a strong advocate for states' rights, began to view the tariff as an unfair burden on the southern states, exacerbating the economic tensions between the North and South. His beliefs were largely shaped by his deepening relationship with the Nullification movement, which argued that states had the right to nullify federal laws they deemed unconstitutional. Calhoun himself was a key figure in developing the theory of nullification.
In response to the Tariff of 1828, Calhoun secretly penned the "South Carolina Exposition and Protest," outlining his theory of nullification and arguing that states could nullify federal laws they deemed unconstitutional. While he did not openly submit the document, it was leaked to the press in 1828 and caused a significant controversy.
Calhoun's evolving opposition to the tariff eventually led him to resign as Vice President in 1832 and return to South Carolina, where he became a vocal advocate for nullification and states' rights. His stance on the tariff and states' rights would continue to play a significant role in the lead up to the American Civil War.