American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House

In late 1832, President Jackson wrote a proclamation (the “Nullification Proclamation”) denouncing nullification, asserting its incompatibility with the Union and the Constitution. He warned South Carolinians of the consequences of secession, invoking their patriotic duty and the chaos and foreign dependence that would follow disunion. While Henry Clay criticized Jackson’s perceived inconsistency, the public generally supported him.

In December 1832, Robert Hayne succeeded Hamilton as governor of South Carolina, relinquishing his Senate seat to Calhoun. Hayne prepared the state’s volunteer corps for possible conflict, aiming to supply them with arms, sabers, and pistols. Calhoun spent the end of December promoting nullification, arguing that after 40 years, the government required reform. Jackson feared that the theory of nullification could potentially unite other Southern states with South Carolina against the federal government. Virginia posed the greatest threat, with its governor, John Floyd, favoring nullification and hinting at possible secession. The state was divided, with Unionists like James Madison opposing nullification while radicals led by Floyd supported it. Jackson’s Nullification Proclamation, emphasizing nationalism, stirred further resistance among Virginians who feared Jackson’s use of federal force.