Force Bill

Summary[]

A bill that extended executive power for enforcing tariffs.

Exact Definition[]

What was it?

The bill was initially enacted in 1833 to give express power to President Andrew Jackson to use whatever force necessary to enforce Federal tariffs. It was intended to suppress South Carolina's refusal to collect tariffs during the Nullification Crisis.

What did it do?

Gave greater executive power.

Importance[]

The importance of the Force Bill is that it is the first piece of legislation to publicly deny the right of secession to individual states. It was also important because it gave Jackson some serious political leverage such as being able to close ports or use armed force.

Additional Information[]

None available.