Final answer:
Nulification is a political theory where a state can declare a federal law null and void within its borders.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nulification is a political theory that refers to the act of a state declaring a federal law null and void within its borders. It was a controversial issue in the United States during the early 19th century, particularly in the context of the nullification crisis between South Carolina and the federal government. South Carolina, under the leadership of John C. Calhoun, argued that individual states had the right to disregard federal laws they deemed unconstitutional.
An example of this is the Tariff of 1828, also known as the Tariff of Abominations, which was imposed by the federal government to protect Northern industries but was deeply unpopular in Southern states. In response, South Carolina passed the Ordinance of Nullification in 1832, declaring the tariff null and void within its borders. This led to a standoff between the state and the federal government, which was eventually resolved through a compromise.