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Nullification Controversy in South Carolina
Carolina, the only state which could possibly be brought to "put herself on her sovereignty," must make every effort to do so.[1] Nullification seemed at times to have hearty support in the neighboring states of Georgia and North Carolina, and it was believed by some that the doctrine would surely spread throughout the plantation states;[2] but while in some states there seemed to be a party ready to support it, in no state did this party show prospects of influencing the state to act immediately. Meanwhile, from Virginia there came distinctly adverse reports.[3]
- ↑ Calhoun Correspondence: Calhoun to Hammond, January 15, 1831.
- ↑ Mercury, January 26, 1851.
- ↑ Hammond Papers: John S. Preston to Hammond, dated Abingdon, Virginia, April 17, 1831: " … The nullification doctrine of South Carolina being not at all understood is looked upon in this section of the state with horror. When, however, the doctrine is explained in the least, all admit that it is but the carrying out of the boasted Virginia principles upon which they so much pride themselves. Any attempt to discuss the subject in the papers of this region would be useless and unprofitable. The people will not listen to it. They do not feel the weight of the oppressions of the general government, and when they are told of it and the ultimate tendency of the 'System,' they stun you with all the slangwhangery of Fourth of July patriotism, the greatness of the Union, and the blood and thunder of civil war. The selfishness of the Scotch-Irish and the phlegmatism of the Germans can never be roused to feeling and action until their own firesides are invaded."
