Jackson, Andrew (1767-1845) to John C. Calhoun
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04872 Author/Creator: Jackson, Andrew (1767-1845) Place Written: Nashville, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 26 June 1820 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 30.8 x 19.4 cm. Order a Copy
General Jackson writing to Secretary of War Calhoun, attempting to mediate a dispute between General Daniel Bissell and the Ordnance Department. Jackson emphasizes the need to maintain a proper chain of command.
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[2]…He alone is the competent Judge of the necessity; and he is liable to punishment for any infringement of the rule, when that necessity does not exist; and it is clear to me that the powers of the role had such cases [inserted: in] View, or else the exception is worse than useless.
[excerpt]
[2]…Experience and common sense forbids such a construction, and demands that he who is responsible for the command, should be permitted to determine when a necessity for his acting with efficiency exists. In my opinion this is the true construction to be given to the rule; and of such an interpretation cannot be given to it, the sooner it is expunged the better; for it is subversive of subordination and all military principles.
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