Page:Kentucky Resolutions of 1798.djvu/36

sistance was evoked. The feeling in that State was, indeed, little short of frenzy, and a singular unanimity was displayed even in the most extreme acts and sentiments. This grew out of no passing passion. It was based upon the most vigorous elements in her character as a people. Kentucky was at this time somewhat apart from the rest of the Union. With the single exception of the newly created State of Tennessee, the only one of the sisterhood west of the mountains, of very recent and rapid growth, she had, to a very large degree, interests peculiar to herself; her needs were not clearly understood, and sometimes, when understood, disregarded by the others. Her complaints, just and unjust, had been many, but hitherto she had not gained the nation's ear. But the time was now ripe for her to assert herself, and as she played the most important part in the little drama that was then hurrying upon the stage, it is important to understand the circumstances which prepared her for her role, and in order that it may be quite plain that it was no mere chance which assigned to her this place, but a manifest destiny long in preparing, this point will be presented somewhat at length.