We make a great mistake in supposing all people are capable of self-government. — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
The danger in our system is that the general government, which represents the interests of the whole, may encroach on the states, which represent… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
Of the two, I considered it more important to avoid a war with England about Oregon than a war with Mexico, important as I… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
The error is in the assumption that the General Government is a party to the constitutional compact. The States ... formed the compact, acting… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
There is not an example on record of any free state holding a province of the same extent and population without disastrous consequences. The… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
It is a remarkable fact in the political history of man that there is scarcely an instance of a free constitutional government which has… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
“Nothing is more difficult than to equalize the action of the government in reference to the various and diversified interests of the community; and… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
I am not one of those who believe that we are bound to vote supplies to cover a deficiency in the treasury whenever called… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
A power has risen up in the government greater than the people themselves, consisting of many and various and powerful interests, combined into one… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
It has been lately urged in a very respectable quarter that it is the mission of this country to spread civil and religious liberty… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
Let a durable and firm peace be established and this government be confined rigidly to the few great objects for which it was instituted,… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
Once established with Great Britain, it would not be difficult, with moderation and prudence, to establish permanent peace with the rest of the world,… — John C. Calhoun Copy Share Image
