AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: The Nullification Crisis (Day 103/309)

Welcome to today’s explanation of the Nullification Crisis in my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

Andrew Jackson, Wikimedia Commons

Andrew Jackson had campaigned as a representative of the common man and as a fierce advocate for states’ rights. However, as president he engaged in many controversial actions that expanded the power of the executive branch.

South Carolina Nullification Ordinance, DocsTeach

With the implementation of the American System, federal tariffs had risen steadily throughout the early 1800s. The tariff of 1828 increased duties to 45% and became known as the Tariff of Abominations.

The Nullification Crisis, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

South Carolina declared the tariff to be unconstitutional. In response, Jackson threatened to use the federal military to force South Carolina to follow the tariff and to arrest individuals for treason.

Henry Clay, Wikimedia Commons

Henry Clay proposed a compromise in 1833 which would gradually lower tariffs. This calmed tensions and ended the controversy. 

When South Carolina declared a federal tariff to be unconstitutional, Jackson threatened to use the federal military to enforce it. The Nullification Crisis was resolved with a compromise but demonstrated another example of Jackson’s expansion of executive power.

Join me tomorrow as I explain American Indian Removal in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!