Calhoun, who persuaded them to try nullification, inspired by Jefferson's compact theory of government. The nullifiers won a substantial victory in the state election in 1832. The new legislature called a state convention, and voted to nullify the tariffs of 1828 and 1832 in South Carolina and prohibit the collection of duties within the state. In response, Jackson passed a proclamation that forbid South Carolina to nullify any federal tariffs and furthermore, would use force to subdue the nullifiers if they pursued their cause, stating that it was treason. He even privately threatened to hang Calhoun, whom he hated and knew was the leader of the nullifiers. This Force Bill allowed Jackson to enforce any acts of Congress militarily. Unfortunately, when South Carolina started the crisis, no other state came to their support, and the state itself was divided in decision, complicating their defense. The Acts and Resolutions of South Carolina (Doc F) were a perfect example of declarations of state's rights the Jackson opposed. He maintained that he believed in state's rights but eventually it became clear he sought to further economic rights of the state's and nothing more. Political rights were not enforced as readily. His reaction to the nullification problems in South Carolina show how Jackson exceeded the authority awarded him in the Constitution, as well as the influence he held over the government and the country.
The Democrats of Jackson's administration were very adamant about maintaining their image as the party of the "common man" and the protectors of liberty. However, they were typically wealthy Westerners and Southerners, never poor farmers or Northeastern merchants. In addition, they believed primarily in the liberty of white males. Women, African-Americans, and especially Native American's were of no pressing importance. Though he Marshall court upheld Native American rights in three different cases, Johnson vs.