Which of the following individuals opposed nullification?

• A. Caleb Cushing
• B. Daniel Webster
• C. Robert Owen
• D. William Lloyd Garrison

Answer: (B)

Daniel Webster strongly opposed nullification, particularly during the Nullification Crisis of the early 1830s. He believed that nullification was a dangerous idea that could threaten the unity of the nation and undermine the authority of the federal government. In his famous "Second Reply to Hayne" speech in 1830, Webster argued that the Constitution created a single national government, and that states did not have the power to nullify federal laws. He emphasized the importance of the Union and the need for adherence to federal authority to ensure the stability and integrity of the country.

The other individuals listed had differing focuses: Caleb Cushing was more involved in law and politics without a prominent stance on nullification; Robert Owen was a social reformer interested in cooperative communities rather than government policy; and William Lloyd Garrison focused on abolitionism and did not engage directly with the issues surrounding nullification in the same manner. Thus, Webster’s firm stance on the supremacy of federal law makes him the standout figure against nullification.