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That the several states who formed that instrument, being…

“That the several states who formed that instrument, being sovereign and independent, have the unquestionable right to judge of its infraction; and that a nullification, by those sovereignties, of all unauthorized acts done under colour of that instrument, is the rightful remedy.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“That the several states who formed that instrument, being sovereign and independent, have the unquestionable right to judge of its infraction; and that a nullification, by those sovereignties, of all unauthorized acts done under colour of that instrument, is the rightful remedy.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

States have the authority to nullify illegal federal actions, protecting sovereignty and liberty.

In simple terms: States can reject unlawful federal laws.

Key Takeaway

Uphold state rights against overreach.

Themes

governance law sovereignty

Mood

reflective political

Type

historical ideological

When to use this quote

  • state legislation
  • court challenges
  • policy debates
  • civil protests

Key Concepts

nullification doctrine federalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is state resistance justified?
  • How to balance national unity and state autonomy?
A Different Perspective

Nullification can cause national division.

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