Texas A&M University (TAMU) HIST105 History of the United States Exam 2 Practice

The outcome of the debates regarding the nullification of federal laws primarily resulted in a temporary resolution. The concept of nullification arose in the early 19th century, particularly articulated by figures like John C. Calhoun, who argued that states had the right to invalidate federal laws they deemed unconstitutional. This led to significant tension, particularly surrounding the tariffs implemented in the 1820s and 1830s.

The nullification crisis, culminating in South Carolina's threat to nullify tariffs, was addressed in 1833 through a compromise orchestrated by President Andrew Jackson and Henry Clay. This compromise effectively lowered the tariffs and allowed South Carolina to retreat from its nullification stance, thus providing a temporary resolution to the conflict. The underlying issues regarding federal versus state authority remained unresolved, but the immediate crisis was calmed.

The temporary resolution did not fundamentally change the balance of power between state and federal government, nor did it lead to immediate conflict or the withdrawal of support for the Second Bank, which were concerns in other contexts. Therefore, the outcome of the debates illustrates how compromises can momentarily alleviate tensions while leaving deeper issues unaddressed.