Description: In this brilliant study of the origins of the Civil War, William Freehling tells the story of the Nullification Controversy in South Carlina, describing how from 1816 to 1836 aristocratic planters of the Palmetto State tumbled from a secure and prosperous life to one rife with economic distress, guilt over slavery, and apprehension of slave rebellion. It shows in compelling detail how this reversal of fortune led the political leaders of Southern Carolina down the path to ever more radical states right doctrines: in 1932 they were seeking to nullify federal law by refusing to obey it; four years later some of them were considering secession.
Review Quotes: "The definitive study of the nullification crisis in South Carolina."--The Free Lance-Star
"Well done....Fine companion to Freehling's other work. Chapters are well organized; summaries are excellent."--Richard Owens, Lewis University"Combines incisive analysis with great narrative power....An important event....Highly readable and absorbing."--Book Week"An excellent piece of research and writing."--Library Journal"[Freehling's] special talent seems to be the capacity to etch characters richly, precisely, and briefly. By this means a very complicated story is made clear and interesting."--The Virginia Quarterly Review