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ERA 3: Revolution and the New Nation (1754–1820s)
The “Horrid And Unnatural Rebellion” Of Daniel Shays, by Alden T. Vaughan
Guiding Questions
Was the new nation on the verge of collapse, from within?
Was Shays’ Rebellion a local uprising or a national crisis?

Shay's Rebellion Illustration
Teacher-to-Teacher
A “Wordle” would be a great strategy to introduce the topic, as would the picture provided. The letter from David Hoyt gives a firsthand account of the conflict. George Washington’s letter gives some insight into the sense of urgency that this uprising be handled. The Articles of Confederation can be used by students to explain how the government acted within its rights to put down the rebellion.
- The “Horrid And Unnatural Rebellion” of Daniel Shays (June 1966 | Volume: 17, Issue: 4) articles_ah
- Articles of Confederation historical_documents
- David Hoyt Jr. to his Father, Regarding Shays' Rebellion- Letter historical_documents
- George Washington Letter to Benjamin Lincoln historical_documents
- Map of Troop Movement During Shays’ Rebellion historical_images
- Soldiers Fire on Protesters- Shays' Rebellion historical_images