Smashing Myths: Understanding Madison's Notes on Nullification

State nullification of unconstitutional acts presents one of the most contentious issues in modern American politics.

Thomas Jefferson and James Madison first formalized the principles in 1798, but opponents use a later document penned by Madison to assert he never supported the idea, and in fact, opposed state nullification. Progressives and conservatives alike point to Madison's Notes on Nullification in an attempt to delegitimize the principles.

In Smashing Myths: Understanding Madison's ...