Articles of Confederation and Shays Rebellion

The Articles of Confederation, America's first founding document, lacked the power to tax, enforce laws, or maintain a standing army, leaving the national government weak. Post-revolution, economic challenges arose, with inflation and debt issues. Shay's Rebellion highlighted these weaknesses, as farmers, led by Daniel Shay, protested foreclosures. The rebellion underscored the need for a stronger central government, leading to the Constitutional Convention and the creation of the US Constitution.

What was a major limitation of the Articles of Confederation?

• It could not enforce laws or maintain a standing army.

• It allowed states to print their own money.

• It gave too much power to the national government.

• It required unanimous consent for amendments.

What did the new government lack under the Articles of Confederation?

• The capacity to establish a postal service.

• The authority to negotiate treaties.

• The power to raise revenue through taxes.

• The ability to declare war.

Why did many men have to take out loans during the Revolutionary War?

• To invest in new businesses.

• To keep their farms operational while they were fighting.

• To pay off their existing debts.

• To buy weapons for the war effort.

What was one consequence of the states refusing to provide more money to the national government?

• The government increased taxes significantly.

• The government started printing more money, leading to inflation.

• The government sold off national lands.

• The government borrowed more money from Britain.

What was a major reason for the economic crisis after the Revolutionary War?

• The discovery of new gold reserves.

• The loss of trade with the British West Indies.

• The establishment of new trade routes.

• The increase in agricultural production.

What was a significant impact of the financial crisis on farmers?

• They were able to expand their farms.

• They were exempted from paying taxes.

• They received government subsidies.

• They lost their property and voting rights.

Who led the rebellion to prevent farm foreclosures in Massachusetts?

• Alexander Hamilton

• Daniel Shay

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

What did Shay's Rebellion highlight about the Articles of Confederation?

• The need for a stronger central government.

• The effectiveness of state militias.

• The success of the Articles in maintaining order.

• The ability of the government to handle rebellions.

What was the ultimate outcome of Shay's Rebellion for the American government?

• The Articles of Confederation were strengthened.

• A convention was called to create the US Constitution.

• The rebellion was completely ignored.

• The states gained more power over the national government.

What financial support did Daniel Shay eventually receive?

• A large inheritance from his family.

• A pension for his military service.

• A loan from the state of Massachusetts.

• A government grant for his farm.