Shay’s Rebellion

Why It Occurred• Farmers had huge debts due to high taxes- due to the rev

war( not for the British) • Massachusetts government didn’t help farmers• Massachusetts farmers were put in jail for debt • Farmers felt it wasn’t fair that ach state was being taxed

differently

What Happened• Massachusetts farmers formed a resistance• Group held secret meetings to organize a revolt• Forcefully closed courts in 1786- on front steps by attacking it • Freed farmers in jail for debt

What Happened Cont.• Daniel Shays became leader of resistance• Daniel Shays- former captain of Continental Army• 1,200 men attacked the Supreme Court in Springfield• Battle between the resistance and the Massachusetts Army

occurred• Massachusetts Army won, and Shays Rebellion fell apart

Importance• Massachusetts government passed laws to help farmers with

debt• Government dropped Articles of Confederations and drafted a

new Constitution• Pushed for a strong and conservative national government

• State delegates were sent to Philadelphia to discuss laws and prevent future rebellions

• states were responsible for how much they payed for in tax.• Points out flaws and weakness of the articles of confederation.