Which states passed legislation to protest the Alien and Sedition Acts? Virginia and Kentucky Kentucky and Missouri Virginia and New Jersey Kentucky and New Jersey

The **Alien and Sedition Acts** were highly controversial laws passed by the Federalist-controlled Congress in 1798. These acts were seen by many, especially Democratic-Republicans, as an overreach of federal power and a violation of individual rights, particularly the freedom of speech and the press. In response to these acts, several states took significant steps to oppose them: 1. **Kentucky**: Kentucky was at the forefront of opposing the Alien and Sedition Acts. The **Kentucky Legislature**, led by figures like Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, drafted the **Kentucky Resolutions**. These resolutions argued that the federal government had exceeded its constitutional authority, emphasizing the doctrine of states' rights. 2. **Virginia**: Following Kentucky's lead, **Virginia** also took a strong stand against the acts. The **Virginia General Assembly** passed similar resolutions, reinforcing the idea that the federal government should not infringe upon the rights of states and individuals. These actions by Kentucky and Virginia were pivotal in shaping the debate over federalism and the balance of power between state and federal governments in the United States. **Correct Answer:** **Virginia and Kentucky**