Question

Shays' Rebellion was mainly caused by farmers' discontent over:

a) High taxes
b) Lack of representation
c) Economic hardship
d) Unfair trade policies

Answer 1

Shays' Rebellion arose due to economic hardship faced by farmers in Massachusetts after the Revolutionary War, marked by high taxes and debts leading to farm foreclosures, compounded by a lack of political clout and perceived governmental injustices.

Step-by-step explanation:

Shays' Rebellion was mainly caused by farmers' discontent over economic hardship such as high taxes, crushing debt, and widespread foreclosures after the Revolutionary War. The rebellion was a reaction to policies of the Massachusetts state government which included large tax liabilities and refusal to accept farm goods as payment for debts, leading to the confiscation of farms and further impoverishing the debt-ridden farmers.

Their grievances also touched upon the lack of political representation and perceived injustices such as inflated government salaries. Despite attempts like taking over the Court of Common Pleas in Northampton to prevent trials that would result in farm foreclosures, the rebellion was quickly suppressed by the state authorities with the support of privately funded armies.

Learn more about Shays' Rebellion

Answer 2

c) Economic hardship The unrest and social tensions stemming from economic woes ultimately influenced the shaping of the United States Constitution, prompting discussions on the need for a more robust federal government capable of addressing economic disparities and preventing future uprisings.

Explanation:

Shays' Rebellion was primarily instigated by economic hardships faced by farmers. After the American Revolutionary War, many farmers encountered financial difficulties due to high debts, low crop prices, and difficulties in paying taxes. The economic turmoil was exacerbated by the post-war depression and the lack of a stable currency, leading to foreclosures on their lands.

These challenges left farmers feeling economically oppressed and discontented, prompting them to revolt against the government. While issues like high taxes and lack of representation were concerns, the core driving force behind Shays' Rebellion was the severe economic strain faced by the farming population.

The rebellion, led by Daniel Shays in Massachusetts, highlighted the urgency for economic reforms and stronger governmental support for struggling farmers. It underscored the necessity for policies that could alleviate economic pressures on the agrarian class.

The unrest and social tensions stemming from economic woes ultimately influenced the shaping of the United States Constitution, prompting discussions on the need for a more robust federal government capable of addressing economic disparities and preventing future uprisings.