Answer:
The best statement that describes how Shays's Rebellion and the Pennsylvania Mutiny affected Congress is:
"Congress feared the spread of future rebellions and anarchy."
Shays's Rebellion, which occurred in Massachusetts in 1786-1787, was a revolt by farmers against perceived economic injustices and burdensome taxes. The rebellion highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, the governing document of the United States at that time. The inability of the national government to effectively respond to the rebellion led to concerns among Congress about the potential for similar uprisings in other states and the overall stability of the new nation.
Similarly, the Pennsylvania Mutiny of 1783, when armed soldiers disrupted the proceedings of Congress in Philadelphia, further revealed the weaknesses of the central government under the Articles of Confederation. This event raised concerns about the ability of Congress to maintain order and protect its authority.
These rebellions served as wake-up calls for Congress and emphasized the need for a stronger federal government. The fear of future rebellions and the potential for anarchy motivated Congress to address the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation and led to the eventual drafting and ratification of the United States Constitution in 1787.
Therefore, the statement that Congress feared the spread of future rebellions and anarchy best describes the impact of Shays's Rebellion and the Pennsylvania Mutiny on Congress.