Here are some key aspects and achievements of John C. Calhoun:
Sectionalism and States' Rights: Calhoun is remembered for his strong views on sectionalism and states' rights. He argued for the protection of southern interests and the sovereignty of individual states within the American federal system. He believed that each state should retain the right to nullify federal laws if it deemed them unconstitutional. Calhoun's states' rights philosophy heavily influenced southern policies and debates during his time.
The Nullification Crisis: Calhoun played a leading role in the Nullification Crisis of 1832, when South Carolina declared the federal tariffs of 1828 and 1832 to be unconstitutional and threatened to secede from the Union unless the tariffs were repealed. Calhoun drafted the South Carolina Exposition and Protest, laying out the state's argument for nullification. He argued that states had the right to resist oppressive federal laws in certain circumstances. However, the crisis was eventually resolved with a compromise tariff.
The Compromise of 1850: Calhoun, though ill at the time, actively took part in debates leading to the famous Compromise of 1850, passed after his death in March of that year. He argued against the admission of California as a free state due to the potential impact on the power balance between slave and free states, and proposed measures to protect southern interest including fugitive slave laws.
Vice Presidency and Other Offices: Prior to serving as vice president, Calhoun held various roles in government, including membership in the South Carolina legislature, the U.S. House of Representatives, and the U.S. Senate. As vice president, he presided over Senate sessions and had significant influence on shaping government policies. Later in his career, he also served as Secretary of War and Secretary of State.
Overall, John C. Calhoun is remembered as a passionate advocate of states' rights, a pivotal figure in shaping sectional rivalries and debates before the American Civil War and as a significant Vice President who served under two distinguished Presidents of the United States.