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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

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.