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Forming the New Republic, Page 20

Whiskey Rebellion

Whiskey RebellionAnother domestic issue still at hand was Alexander Hamilton’s financial plan for the nation. When he introduced the idea of a tariff on imported goods, Congress approved the tax on whiskey in 1791. This tax angered the colonists mainly because of the significance of the product. Whiskey was made from corn, which was grown by farmers and could easily be shipped without spoiling. Those living in western Pennsylvania and other frontier areas refused to pay the tax and decided to take matters into their own hands. Reminiscent of the Boston Tea Party and Shay’s Rebellion, settlers launched the Whiskey Rebellion. Washington was forced to compile an army to squash the rebellion.Tarred and Feathered