The Tariff of \(1828\), which southerners labeled the "Tariff of Abominations" because it placed high duties on imported goods, benefiting northern industry while increasing costs for southern consumers.
What was the "Bank War"?
The political struggle over the rechartering of the Second Bank of the United States (BUS). President Andrew Jackson vehemently opposed the BUS, viewing it as a monopolistic institution that favored the wealthy elite and wielded too much power.
Why did Jackson veto the bill to recharter the Second Bank of the U.S. in \(1832\)?
He argued the bank was unconstitutional, a monopoly that benefited rich investors at the expense of farmers and workers, and that it was a 'monster' of privilege. His veto message was a powerful appeal to the common man.
After his reelection, how did Jackson move to destroy the Bank of the United States before its charter expired?
He ordered the withdrawal of all federal funds from the BUS and deposited them into various state banks, which his opponents derisively called "pet banks."
What economic crisis is seen as a direct consequence of Jackson's banking policies, including the Specie Circular?
The Panic of \(1837\). The destruction of the BUS and the requirement that public lands be purchased with gold or silver (specie) led to a credit crunch, bank failures, and a major economic depression.
How did South Carolina, led by John C. Calhoun, respond to the tariffs of \(1828\) and \(1832\)?
The state passed an Ordinance of Nullification, declaring the federal tariffs null and void within South Carolina and threatening to secede from the Union if the federal government tried to collect the duties by force.
How did President Jackson respond to the Nullification Crisis?
He declared nullification to be treason and unconstitutional. He strengthened federal forts in South Carolina and obtained the Force Bill from Congress, which authorized him to use the military to enforce federal law.
How was the Nullification Crisis ultimately resolved?
Through a compromise engineered by Henry Clay. The Compromise Tariff of \(1833\) gradually lowered tariff rates over a decade, appeasing South Carolina, which then rescinded its nullification ordinance.
What was the purpose of the Indian Removal Act of \(1830\)?
It authorized the president to negotiate treaties with Native American tribes in the South to exchange their lands east of the Mississippi River for lands in the West, primarily in modern-day Oklahoma.
What was the Supreme Court's ruling in *Worcester v. Georgia* (\(1832\))?
The Court, under Chief Justice John Marshall, ruled that the Cherokee Nation was a distinct political community and that the laws of Georgia had no force within its territory. The ruling was a victory for the Cherokee.
How did President Jackson react to the *Worcester v. Georgia* ruling?
He famously defied the ruling, allegedly saying, "John Marshall has made his decision; now let him enforce it." The executive branch refused to enforce the Court's decision, allowing states to continue encroaching on tribal lands.
What was the Trail of Tears?
The forced removal of the Cherokee Nation and other southeastern tribes (Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, Seminole) from their ancestral lands to Indian Territory (Oklahoma). Thousands died from disease, starvation, and exposure during the brutal journey.
