Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

The consequence of Shays' Rebellion that highlighted the need for a stronger federal government stems from the significant unrest and dissatisfaction with the existing government under the Articles of Confederation. In 1786-1787, Shays' Rebellion involved a series of protests by American farmers, particularly in Massachusetts, against economic injustices and the lack of governmental response to issues such as high taxes and debts.

The uprising revealed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which created a loose alliance of states and lacked a strong centralized authority to enforce laws or provide effective governance. As a result of the rebellion, many leaders began to recognize that the federal government needed to possess greater power to maintain order and respond to such crises, ultimately contributing to the convening of the Constitutional Convention in 1787. This led to the drafting of a new Constitution, which established a stronger federal government with more authority to address issues that the states were unable to manage effectively.