Educator's Edition DVD-ROM
High School Homework 4: What is Nullification?
Introduction
Does a state have the right to ignore the laws of the federal government? Well, not today. But in the early days of the United States there was an ongoing tension between the states and the federal government in Washington, D.C. By the end of Andrew Jackson's first term, it was clear that the president was going to assert the government's ultimate authority over the states. Jackson's direct involvement in the nullification crisis in South Carolina puts this issue to rest - at least until the Civil War. You are off again, this time to figure out what nullification is and identify the crisis in South Carolina.
Task
First, report on the issues that brought about the discussion of nullification. Next, explain what might have happened to the United States had the nullification movement been successful.
Process
- Read the excerpts from the documents and write down what you think the states involved intended for each crisis.
- Watch the Nullification, Part 1 video clip.
- Now that you have an understanding of what was involved, what do you think would have happened if South Carolina had gone further than just a threat? Write down your answer.
- Share your answers with the class.
