Homework Four Answers - Student Fifteen

1. Explain why the North supported higher tariffs, but the South opposed them.

The tariff was labeled an abomination to the south because it practically forced them to buy their manufactured goods from the north. It also reduced the amount they earned from raw exports like cotton. The tariff boosted the North’s economy greatly because it became unreasonable for people in the south to purchase imported products.

Superb answer!

2. Do you think States have the right to secede from (leave) the United States? Discuss, including a mention of "nullification doctrine.

The United States of America simply are United States. Following the alien and sedition act, it was decided, that a state can nullify a law set in place by the government if it proves unconstitutional. Also if a state is considering seceding, the thought of whether it was constitutionally correct or not would be irrelevant.

Good point about how the theoretical constitutionality of secession is a bit moot if a state is determined to do it anyway. But whether a state can nullify federal laws is far from settled. Most would say nullification is NOT allowed, due to the Supremacy Clause in the Constitution.

3. Who was the most politically conservative of the early presidents, after George Washington? Explain.

Of the early presidents James Madison proved himself politically conservative in numerous ways. He never attempted to abuse his power or make a decision that would ultimately be un-fruitful to the American citizens. This devotion to conservatism brought the “Era of good Feelings” to our country.

Excellent.

4. Many say the War of 1812 was an unnecessary war. Your view, please?

The war of 1812 like most wars held achievements as well as losses. While it may have been postponed for a short while I do believe a conflict would have eventually erupt. James Madison with approval of congress did the right thing by declaring war and gained numerous advantages that helped nourish our growing country.

Good, could be a bit more specific here in your answer. (Minus 1)

5. Choose any mystery or discussion question from the lecture, and write about it. Debate: Was this "Louisiana Purchase" an improper exercise of power?

Thomas Jefferson purchased Louisiana in the most respectable manner he could. Being one of Americas founders as well as the main author of the declaration of independence gave him a reputation for being trustworthy. The senate approved the purchase and the result was doubling our size as a country. It was not an improper exercise of power.

OK.

8. Describe something that surprises you about the map of the United States in 1840.

I find it very interesting how both Oregon and the tip of Maine were claimed by the U.S. as well as Britain. After the war of 1812 I would have concluded that Britain would be for the most part out of any American territories by 1840.

Right, but Britain was not. The British Empire continued to grow in power until World War I, beginning in 1914.

-Honors Questions-

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H1. I think we overpaid in buying the Louisiana Purchase, and that it was unconstitutional also. Do you agree?

The Louisiana Purchase was an enormous steal. For $15 million we doubled the size of our country. Unfortunately, nowhere in the constitution does it shed light on the Presidents ability to make such purchases. With the senate’s approval I believe it was a just purchase. However the precedent that the President can act contrary to the constitution in “Special circumstances” changed American government forever.

Excellent point about changing American government, could become a model answer. (Note that I changed "precedence" to its correct form, "precedent".)

H3. Discuss any debate topic or mystery related to 1800-1840. Debate: Is it wrong for a politician to cut a deal with another politician like the "corrupt bargain" between Adams and Clay?

The cool thing about politics is there aren’t really any rules. If a politician wants to cut a deal he is free to do so. However he will have to suffer any consequences that might come from his actions.

Good insight about there really aren't any rules in political dealings like this one.

H4. It is said that Andrew Jackson was the first modern president. Why, and would you have voted for him?

Andrew Jackson is known as the first modern president because he used all the powers, granted through the constitution, to the full extent. He introduced the “spoils system" as well as vetoing an enormous amount of bills. I would have voted for him.

Excellent answer!

Kyle M.

Grade:Terrific answers, among the best in the class. 89/90. Very well done!--Andy Schlafly 23:53, 6 March 2011 (EST)