Here are some questions to jump start our discussion of the Sedition Act (1798) and the Kentucky Resolutions (1798). Bear in mind that the organic nature of in-class discussions will lead to questions not listed here. See you all Wednesday!
SEDITION ACT
What are the main provisions of this act?
With all of these actions and opinions being prohibited, what ARE you allowed to do or say?
Who does it target?
Do you think that this approach was an effective method for diminishing the divisive partisan politics of the Early Republic? Why, or why not?
As mentioned in lecture, President Adams didn’t strictly enforce the Sedition Act. So, what is its significance? What does it teach us?
KENTUCKY RESOLUTIONS
What passages in this document show support for the states’ rights position?
According to Jefferson’s interpretation of the Constitution, what power does Congress have?
Why were Democratic-Republicans like Jefferson opposed to the Alien Act (passed at the same time as the Sedition Act)?
Since the Kentucky Resolutions weren’t supported by other states, what is their greater significance?
