Andrew Jackson's profound dislike for John C. Calhoun stemmed from a complex mix of deeply personal conflicts rooted in the social dynamics of Washington, D.C., and significant political disagreements, particularly concerning the contentious issue of states' rights.
The Social Catalyst: The Peggy Eaton Affair
One of the most significant origins of the personal animosity between Jackson and Calhoun was the Peggy Eaton Affair, a social scandal that rocked Washington society during Jackson's first term as president. Peggy O'Neale Eaton, the wife of Jackson's Secretary of War, John Eaton, was the subject of widespread ostracism by other cabinet wives, including Floride Calhoun, the wife of Vice President John C. Calhoun.
- Peggy Eaton's Background: Peggy was rumored to have had an affair with John Eaton while her first husband was still alive, leading to widespread social condemnation after her rapid marriage to Eaton following her husband's death.
- Mrs. Calhoun's Role: Floride Calhoun led the charge in socially snubbing Peggy Eaton, refusing to visit her or invite her to social gatherings. This act of ostracism was significant, as it challenged the social standing of a cabinet member's wife and, by extension, Jackson's administration.
- Jackson's Response: President Jackson vehemently defended Peggy Eaton. His staunch support for her was deeply personal, perhaps influenced by the similar societal judgment and criticism his own late wife, Rachel, had endured regarding the circumstances of their marriage. Jackson perceived the social slight against Peggy as a direct attack on his administration and his personal honor, fueling his resentment towards those, like the Calhouns, who spearheaded the exclusion.
Divergent Political Philosophies
Beyond the social disputes, fundamental political differences also drove a wedge between Jackson and Calhoun. While they initially served together, their views on crucial national issues began to diverge sharply, especially concerning the balance of power between the federal government and individual states.
- States' Rights vs. Federal Authority: Calhoun, originally a nationalist, evolved into a staunch proponent of states' rights and the doctrine of nullification, which asserted a state's right to declare federal laws unconstitutional and void within its borders. Jackson, on the other hand, was a fervent unionist who believed in a strong federal government and the supremacy of federal law. This ideological chasm became acutely evident during the Nullification Crisis, when South Carolina, under Calhoun's intellectual influence, threatened to nullify federal tariffs.
- Other Policy Disagreements: Although states' rights was the most prominent, Calhoun and Jackson also held separate views on various other issues shaping the young nation, contributing to their growing political estrangement.
Summary of Key Factors in the Jackson-Calhoun Rift
The animosity between these two powerful figures of American history can be summarized by examining their contrasting positions and the events that exacerbated their relationship:
| Factor | Andrew Jackson's Stance/Reaction | John C. Calhoun's/Mrs. Calhoun's Stance/Actions | Impact on Relationship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peggy Eaton Affair | Fiercely defended Peggy Eaton, viewing her ostracism as a personal affront and a challenge to his authority. | Mrs. Calhoun led the social exclusion of Peggy Eaton, reflecting a wider disapproval of her among Washington elites. | Ignited Jackson's personal animosity towards Calhoun and his wife, as he saw their actions as disloyal and disrespectful, contributing significantly to a deep-seated resentment. |
| States' Rights/Nullification | Strong advocate for the Union and federal supremacy; vehemently opposed nullification. | Championed states' rights and the right of states to nullify federal laws they deemed unconstitutional. | Created an irreconcilable political divide, turning Calhoun into a primary political opponent and threatening the unity of the nation Jackson swore to protect. |
| Washington Social Scene | Disliked the elitism and social maneuvering that often influenced political dynamics. | Calhoun and his wife were central figures in the social hierarchy that ostracized Peggy Eaton. | The social conflicts exacerbated existing tensions and were perceived by Jackson as a direct challenge to his authority and legitimacy, fueling his distrust in Calhoun. |
In essence, the "Petticoat Affair" served as the personal flashpoint that inflamed Jackson's feelings towards Calhoun, intertwining with and accelerating the widening chasm of their divergent political philosophies, particularly concerning the foundational principle of states' rights.
