What rebellion, led by Daniel Shays, highlighted the need for a strong national government?

Shays' Rebellion was an armed uprising that took place in 1786-1787, primarily in Massachusetts, and was led by Daniel Shays, a former Revolutionary War soldier. The rebellion was fueled by economic grievances, including high taxes and the threat of foreclosure on farms, which many farmers could not afford to pay. The unrest resulted from the perceived inability of the Articles of Confederation to effectively address the economic struggles of citizens and maintain public order.

The significance of Shays' Rebellion lay in its stark demonstration of the weaknesses of the existing government under the Articles of Confederation. The federal government lacked the power to raise a standing army, levy taxes, or regulate interstate commerce, which made it difficult to respond effectively to such uprisings. This rebellion underscored the urgent need for a stronger national government capable of maintaining law and order and addressing the economic challenges faced by the nation. Consequently, the rebellion contributed to the momentum for drafting the new Constitution, leading to its creation in 1787 at the Constitutional Convention.