ABSTRACT
Whilst the bill which became the tariff law of 1816 was pending in the House of Representatives, an elaborate discussion took place, during which the policy of protection underwent a scrutinizing investigation. The defense of the principle of protection rested, however, mainly upon Mr. Calhoun, of South Carolina, to whom it was, by general consent, confided, on account of his acknowledged ability. The wealth of any single nation, or any individual, it is true, may not immediately depend on the three, but such wealth always presupposes their existence. He viewed the words in the most enlarged sense. These propositions are laid down with the skill of a practiced debater. They are not mere opinions, which may be adopted or rejected at pleasure; but principles essentially pertaining to the science of government. It appears, therefore, that the measure was not supported by a majority of the representatives from either the New England or the Southern States.
