Chapter 9 - Part 3 (2 slides) Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions: Detailed Notes

Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions

  • The Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions were written in response to the Alien and Sedition Acts.
  • Authored by Thomas Jefferson from Virginia.

Argument and Key Points

  • Fundamental Rights

    • States possess fundamental rights that the federal government cannot abridge.
    • This concept is supported by the Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which asserts that all powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states.

  • Constitution as Compact

    • The Constitution is viewed as a compact between the federal government and the individual states.
    • It necessitates mutual agreement on matters affecting both parties.

  • Nullification of Federal Law

    • States have the right to nullify federal laws they deem unconstitutional.
    • This concept is a foundational premise of the Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions.
    • The upcoming Kentucky Resolution will also address tariffs, asserting similar arguments that states can nullify unjust taxes.

Supreme Court Authority

  • Final Authority Question
    • The debate includes whether the Supreme Court has the final say in constitutional matters.
    • While many believe this to be true, the Constitution does not explicitly state this until the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison.
    • At the time of the resolutions (1798), the Supreme Court had yet to establish itself as the final authority, which could lead to Jefferson's belief that states hold this power.

Historical Significance

  • Election of 1800
    • The election of 1800 is a significant date, described as the 'Revolution of 1800'.
    • This event marked the end of Federalist power and the rise of the Jeffersonian Republicans.
    • President John Adams, frustrated with escalating conflicts with France and Britain, chose a path of inaction, leading to the Republican victory.
    • Jefferson, a key figure in this transition, became president following the election.

Contextual Notes

  • The lecture indicates that Chapter Nine leaves off with a crucial cliffhanger related to the Electoral College tie impacting the presidential election.

  • Assignment Notes:

    • Chapter Nine outline is optional for enrichment; it is due Monday at midnight along with projects.
    • Students are encouraged to ask questions about projects, but there's a humorous caution about over-questioning, as exemplified by a student named Peter.

  • Students are reminded to utilize class time effectively for project work and to seek assistance as needed.