Description
Book SynopsisJohn C Calhoun may be best known for his stature in the US Senate and his controversial defense of slavery, but he is also a key figure in American political thought. This book sheds light on the crisis leading up to the Civil War by exploring Calhoun's conviction that his uncompromising defense of slavery would help preserve the Union.
Trade ReviewAn outstanding book. Read reveals the fundamental flaws of Calhoun's 'concurrent majority', but also offers a sympathetic and compelling account of the Carolinian's vain efforts to craft a constitutional solution to the deepening sectional crisis.... Essential reading for all serious students of American political thought. Peter Onuf, author of Jefferson's Empire: The Language of American Nationhood ""Provides a lucid analysis of the political philosophy and constitutional theories of a key historical figure.... Invaluable for anyone with an interest in constitutional history or antebellum thought."" Daniel Farber, author of Lincoln's Constitution ""Very well done - a first-rate piece of work."" Michael P. Zuckert, author of The Natural Rights Republic
