Their resolutions expressed complete faith in Jackson, opposition to the tariff, and the determination to stand by the Union until the only alternative should be dissolution or the loss of civil liberty. They incidentally expressed the hope and belief that the Philadelphia anti-tariff convention would lead to results and show the value of constitutional opposition to the tariff.[1]
The fall city elections in Charleston were eagerly anticipated as a test of party strength. Each party nominated a complete ticket, of intendant and twelve wardens, and the election was declared the most exciting ever held.[2] The
- ↑ 'Courier, August 1, 10, September 15, 16, 30, November 10, 18, 35, 183 1; Journal, August 13, December 3; Mercury, August 20, 22; Mountaineer, September 10, 24, October 8; Gazette, September 15.
- ↑ The vote the year before was thought large, with about 1,600, but this year it reached 1,978.
whose resolutions are law, and whose measures are conceived and dictated by a half dozen men. The Association was not elected by the people, but selected by the agents of a few leaders. Their resolutions are always the work of the chiefs and only submitted after full consideration to the adoption of the Association. When adopted, they are the law of the land, in a community which has always subjected law and legislation to public opinion. This process is wonderfully efficient. The leaders resolve; the Association propagates; and the people follow. Who in the Association dare oppose Pompey, Caesar, and Crassus? If there be one so disposed, he must fed that opposition would be suicidal. And who so bold among the people as to oppose the views of the Association? If there be any, they are damned as submission men …"
