Be Washington: The Whiskey Rebellion
This page provides resources accompanying the Be Washington: The Whiskey Rebellion Affair scenario. It contains primary and secondary sources on the Whiskey Rebellion as well as helpful teaching materials. Use these resources to aid the Be Washington gameplay, learn more about Washington's presidency, and find useful learning materials!
The Whiskey Rebellion
The Whiskey Rebellion threatened the authority of the president and the U.S. Constitution. Washington needed to control the rebels - and fast. Would he let local officials lead, or send in the militia to quell tensions?
Read about the Whiskey Rebellion
Alexander Hamilton
Alexander Hamilton was a supporter of the Whiskey Tax, believing that the federal government must have a way to raise funds. Read more about Hamilton's life and his role in Washington's cabinet.
Read about Hamilton
Whiskey Production
Many Western Pennsylvania farmers relied on whiskey production for income. When the whiskey tax came, they felt personally affected. Read more about the process of distilling whiskey, and why Washington took an interest in it himself.
Read about Whiskey ProductionPlay Now
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Tax on whiskey is passed
Congress approves the excise tax on distilled spirits.
Click to explore the advice referenced in Be Washington: The Whiskey Rebellion!
Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, August 2, 1794
Thomas Mifflin to George Washington, 5 August 1794
Edmund Randolph in Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 5 August 1794
Daniel Morgan to George Washington, 24 September 1794
Hugh Henry Brackenridge to Tench Cox, 8 August 1794
Proclamation of 1794
Washington issued this Proclamation of 1794 warning the rebels of the possible consequences of their actions. In it, Washington writes, "I warn all persons... not to abet aid or comfort the Insurgents aforesaid, as they will answer the contrary at their peril."
Militia Act of 1792
This Act enables the president to "call forth the militia" in order to "command such insurgents to disperse, and retire peaceably to their respective abodes." This Militia Act was incredibly useful during the Whiskey Rebellion, as it allowed Washington to use military force to quell the rebels.
Interactive Timeline
Looking for more information on the Whiskey Rebellion? Click to view a full timeline of the events and correspondence throughout the uprising.
Encouraging National Unity
George Washington encouraged national unity throughout his presidency, despite situations like the Whiskey Rebellion, which threatened to tear the nation apart. This short video explains more.
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