Nullification Crisis

The Nullification Crisis (1832-1833) was a conflict between South Carolina and the federal government over states' rights. South Carolina believed it could refuse to enforce a federal law they disagreed with, specifically tariffs they found harmful to their economy. The state threatened to secede if forced to comply. The federal government, led by President Andrew Jackson, insisted federal laws must be followed. The crisis was ultimately resolved when Congress agreed to reduce tariffs, and South Carolina repealed its nullification stance, highlighting the ongoing tension between state sovereignty and federal authority in the U.S.