Examples Of Shaysite Grievances

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What took place in Massachusetts during the years 1786 through 1787 shocked many. Shays’ Rebellion is directly linked to the high taxes and call for debt collection imposed by the government after the American Revolution (Danver 207). A group of newly settled farmers lead by a veteran of the Revolution, Daniel Shays, band together in hopes of changing the future; in hopes of living in a world without the economic injustices they were facing. It even wound up getting the attention of George Washington who stated that the rebellion played an integral role in his decision to attend the Philadelphia Convention (Danver 215). In a letter addressed to General Henry Knox, George Washington expressed his complete and utter shock regarding the recent uprising. He stated, “I feel, my dear Genl. Knox, infinitely more than I can express to you, for the disorders which have arisen in these States. Good God! who besides a tory could have foreseen, or a Briton predicted them!”. As this quote suggests, he did not see a protest as such taking place in the unforeseen future. Although the letter evidently conveys Washington's alarm, he does not seem to bring into context any reasons for which he believes prompted these men to fight so passionately. As mentioned by Aria & Cody in their presentation, …show more content…

He addresses the letter to “the People of the Several towns in the County of Hampshire” and explains that he serves to inform them of the reasons behind both the recent and current uprisings (Gray). In the document he mentions the economic disadvantages they are being hindered by and the “Suspension of the writ of Habeas Corpes”, bringing forth his belief that people are being unlawfully arrested. The source is obviously partial to the Shaysites side and seems to be attempting to rally supporters for their