In 1789, farmers in western Pennsylvania revolted against a new tax on alcohol passed by Congress as part of Hamilton’s plan to fix the economy. Unlike Shay’s Rebellion, which happened before the Constitution, and in some way inspired the need for the Constitution, the Government was strong enough now to squash the Whisky Rebellion. Washington, in a show of force, even rode at the head of the army for several miles. Many today believe that Hamilton hoped the western farmers would revolt against his tax. It allowed the new government to flex its muscles and show the nation that it was in charge.
Historically Speaking 