Early Life
John Caldwell Calhoun was born on March 18, 1782, in Abbeville, South Carolina. He grew up in a farming family of Scotch-Irish descent. Calhoun attended local schools and later studied at Yale College, graduating in 1804. Afterward, he studied law and began practicing as a lawyer in South Carolina.
Political Career
Calhoun entered politics in 1808 and quickly became influential. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives and gained attention for his strong support of the War of 1812. Later, he became Secretary of War under President James Monroe. In 1824, Calhoun was elected Vice President of the United States, serving under both John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson.
Beliefs and Nullification Crisis
Calhoun is best known for his defense of states’ rights and slavery. He believed that each state had the power to nullify, or reject, federal laws it found unconstitutional. This idea became central during the Nullification Crisis of the early 1830s when South Carolina opposed federal tariffs. Calhoun resigned as Vice President in 1832 to fight for his state’s position.
Later Life and Legacy
Calhoun continued to serve in the U.S. Senate and as Secretary of State under President John Tyler. He strongly defended slavery as a “positive good,” which made him a leading voice for the South before the Civil War. He died on March 31, 1850, in Washington, D.C., just over a decade before the war began. Calhoun remains a controversial figure in American history for his role in promoting states’ rights and slavery.
1. What is the main idea of the passage?
2. Which statement best describes Calhoun’s early life?
3. Why did Calhoun resign as Vice President?
4. Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the Nullification Crisis?
5. Which of the following best describes how Calhoun’s beliefs influenced history?
6. Compare Calhoun’s early career to his later years. Which is most accurate?
7. Why is Calhoun considered a controversial figure today?