Who was John C. Calhoun in relation to the Jacksonian Era?

• A. He was a famous novelist
• B. He was the Vice President under Jackson
• C. He was a military general
• D. He was a state governor

Answer: (B)

John C. Calhoun served as Vice President under Andrew Jackson from 1829 to 1832, making him an important political figure during the Jacksonian Era. His vice presidency was marked by significant political tensions, particularly over issues such as states' rights and tariffs. Calhoun was a leading advocate for the doctrine of nullification, which argued that states could invalidate federal laws they deemed unconstitutional, a stance that put him at odds with Jackson later in his presidency. This role as Vice President places him squarely within the context of the Jacksonian Era, where his influence on southern politics and his stance on federal authority were pivotal in shaping the political landscape of the time. His contributions to political theory and state sovereignty debates make his position as Vice President particularly notable during this transformative period in American history.