I understand some states have had their own referenda but I was wondering if there was any history of nationwide referenda in the United States. I have a keen interest, but my knowledge of the history of the US is limited and I can't say I've ever heard of a nationwide referendum in the US. Is this something that federal law permits? If not why not? Throughout history has there ever been a serious call for a referendum on a specific issue?
There has never been a nationwide referendum in the United States, and there exists no lawful means for one. A constitutional amendment would have to be passed in order to create some means by which such a thing could be held.