Posted by Jami Couch | Posted in | Posted on 10:24 AM
So, in light of the upcoming Independence Day, it might be nice to reflect on the two secessionist crises in American history and the very different results of the two (that would be the "Revolutionary War" and the "Civil War"). Actually, Let A Thousand Nations Bloom is running a secession week talking about secession in general. It's pretty interesting stuff...you should check it out.
Also, just out of curiosity, what are you guys' views on secession? Is it a justifiable course of action under any circumstances?
Also, just out of curiosity, what are you guys' views on secession? Is it a justifiable course of action under any circumstances?
I haven't checked out the link you posted yet and I'm on my way out the door so I may have to re-address this later. For now, I say yes, secession is a justifiable course of action that's basically granted in the constitution. If secession wasn't an option then we wouldn't really be free. But it should be a LAST resort, and only employed when the government violates the rights the constitution guarantees. Happy 4th everybody!!!
But what constitutes a secession-worthy violation of constitutional rights by the government? My guess is probably that everyone, on some level, believes in secession - even if they won't say it. If the government were running about killing people willy-nilly or, say, taxing without representation, enough people would probably be outraged to secede, regardless of the legal status of secession.
But what about less egregious offenses?
Little things, like federalizing hate crimes or drug prohibition - in other words anything that could in someone's wildest imagination affect interstate commerce - are these grievances enough to secede?
It seems to me that any improper use of federal power is an offense against the states and the people, violating the 10th Amendment...and that's good enough for me!