John C. Calhoun (politician)

John C. Calhoun was a prominent American politician from South Carolina in the 19th century. He served as Vice President, Senator, and Secretary of State. Calhoun was a strong supporter of states' rights and believed that states should have the authority to manage their own affairs, especially regarding slavery. He defended slavery as a positive good and opposed tariffs that he felt favored Northern industry at the expense of the South. His ideas contributed to the tensions leading up to the Civil War. Calhoun is remembered as a key figure in the politics of his era, advocating for Southern interests and states’ sovereignty.