During Andrew Jackson's presidency (1829-1837), a prime example of his push for a stronger federal government was the Nullification Crisis (1832).
Here's a breakdown of the event:
- The Issue: South Carolina heavily disliked the high federal tariffs (taxes on imports) that benefitted Northern industries. They argued states had the right to "nullify" (cancel) these laws within their borders.
- Jackson's Response: Jackson strongly disagreed with nullification, seeing it as a threat to national unity. He issued a forceful proclamation defending federal authority and threatened military action if South Carolina didn't comply.
The crisis ultimately involved compromise, but it highlighted Jackson's willingness to assert federal power against states' rights.
