Shays’ Rebellion Essay Shays’ Rebellion was when a group of farmers protested against the government shortly after America gained its independence. Although these farmers rebelled against the government, nevertheless they stood up, aimed to help country, and their actions had lasting effects affecting the government. These protesters stood up against the government. It is important to realize that “ the people who have stepped up to demand rights for themselves and others are most likely to be put in jail.” These jails they were put in were often far away from their homes. According to Document A, an excerpt from a speech by Daniel Gray, the third reason for the protesters actions sums up that they were punished for demanding rights