The Whiskey Rebellion

In 1794, thousands of federalized militia marched into western Pennsylvania to put down an uprising by American farmers. Their crime? Making whiskey and refusing to pay a federal tax on it. The Whiskey Rebellion was the first major test of the new federal government’s authority, and George Washington personally accompanied the troops sent to suppress it. But why did a tax on whiskey bring the young United States so close to civil war? It’s another one of the Stories of Appalachia. Subscribe to the Stories podcast for more stories about the people, places, and events that shaped Appalachia. Thanks for listening!