The 1828 Tariff Crisis and Its Impact on American Politics

In 1828, Congress passed a tariff to protect American manufacturers, leading to tensions between the North and South. John C. Calhoun opposed the tariff, arguing it was unconstitutional and introduced the idea of nullification, allowing states to void federal laws. President Andrew Jackson opposed nullification, preparing for military action. A compromise reduced the tariff, averting conflict. The nullification crisis highlighted sectional tensions, foreshadowing the Civil War.

What was the primary purpose of the 1828 tariff?

• To increase foreign trade

• To promote agricultural exports

• To protect American manufacturers

• To reduce government revenue

Why did the South oppose the 1828 tariff?

• It increased the cost of imported goods

• It reduced the price of cotton

• It favored agricultural interests

• It was supported by Southern politicians

What document did John C. Calhoun anonymously write in response to the tariff?

• The Monroe Doctrine

• The South Carolina Exposition and Protest

• The Emancipation Proclamation

• The Federalist Papers

According to Calhoun, why was the tariff unconstitutional?

• It favored the North over the South

• It was not approved by the President

• It violated the Bill of Rights

• It was not ratified by all states

What action did South Carolina take in response to the tariff?

• They declared war on the federal government

• They passed an ordinance of nullification

• They increased their own tariffs

• They sought support from foreign nations

What was President Andrew Jackson's initial reaction to South Carolina's nullification?

• He ignored it

• He supported it

• He prepared the Army for war

• He resigned from office

What was the purpose of the Force Bill passed by Congress?

• To abolish the tariff

• To authorize military action to enforce federal laws

• To support South Carolina's nullification

• To reduce tariffs

Who played a key role in engineering a compromise to reduce the tariff?

• Andrew Jackson

• James Madison

• John C. Calhoun

• Henry Clay

What was the final act of defiance by South Carolina after withdrawing its nullification?

• They abolished Jackson's Force Bill in their state

• They declared independence

• They increased their own tariffs

• They sought an alliance with foreign nations

What idea continued to persist after the nullification crisis?

• The abolition of slavery

• The concept of secession

• The expansion of the Union

• The increase of tariffs