
In 1828 John C. Calhoun released "The South Carolina Exposition" to the citizens of our nation. In this document he raised the issue of nullification. Nullification is the ability of a state to disobey a federal law that the state considers unconstitutional. There have been debates and arguments over the ten years since Calhoun spread this idea and many people wonder what may have caused this man, both the Vice President and a previously strong supporter of central government, to release such a document. To find the answer to this question we must look to the years leading up to 1828. In 1816 a tariff was placed on imported goods, and while Calhoun had no opposition to this tariff he changed temperament quickly when the tariff was raised once in 1824 and again in 1828. Calhoun even went as far as to declare the tariff a "Tariff of Abominations." Before we criticize Calhoun for his quick change of heart we must understand that this tariff hits his home in South Carolina very hard. Because of the tariff South Carolina is forced to buy goods at a heightened price. This has caused the state to undergo a great deal of economic hardship. Calhoun thus believes that unless the government truly serves in the best interest of all the states that a state should not be forced to remain in the union.
It is my opinion that it is the function of a federal government to ensure the fair treatment of all territories and groups that make it up. If the government does not attempt to help all groups that participate in it then does that government truly head a nation. In fact, does this mean that our United States of America are not truly a nation. I believe that a nation should be ruled based on equality between the states. A nation should never favor one area or group over any of the other parts which are fundamental to its existence.
2 comments:
I agree with your opinion. Good points. Although it was kind of hard to understand due to the grammar. It's ok, I understand what you're getting at.
I read over the post once more and could not find any of the grammar mistakes which you make reference to. It would be great if you could help by pointing some of them out.
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