What did Shays' Rebellion reveal about the powers of Congress under the Articles of Confederation?

What did Shays' Rebellion reveal about the powers of Congress under the Articles of Confederation?

• A. Congress could easily suppress unrest
• B. Congress had sufficient funds to protect citizens
• C. Congress lacked power to enforce laws
• D. Congress was highly effective in managing trade

Answer: (C)

Shays' Rebellion highlighted the significant limitations of the federal government's authority under the Articles of Confederation, particularly illustrating that Congress did not have the power to enforce laws. This uprising, which took place in 1786-1787, was driven by economic distress and perceived injustices faced by farmers, particularly regarding taxes and debt. The federal government was unable to intervene effectively to quell the rebellion or assist Massachusetts in restoring order because Congress lacked a standing army and the financial resources necessary to support states in times of crisis. This event revealed the weaknesses inherent in the Articles, showcasing that states operated independently and could not rely on the federal government for support. Consequently, the inability of Congress to act decisively during such uprisings emphasized the need for a stronger central authority, eventually leading to the Constitutional Convention and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.

Shays' Rebellion highlighted the significant limitations of the federal government's authority under the Articles of Confederation, particularly illustrating that Congress did not have the power to enforce laws. This uprising, which took place in 1786-1787, was driven by economic distress and perceived injustices faced by farmers, particularly regarding taxes and debt.

The federal government was unable to intervene effectively to quell the rebellion or assist Massachusetts in restoring order because Congress lacked a standing army and the financial resources necessary to support states in times of crisis. This event revealed the weaknesses inherent in the Articles, showcasing that states operated independently and could not rely on the federal government for support. Consequently, the inability of Congress to act decisively during such uprisings emphasized the need for a stronger central authority, eventually leading to the Constitutional Convention and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.