Section Two Early Challenges

The Whiskey Rebellion A tax on whiskey began an uprising in western Pennsylvania. Many farmers used whiskey to barter with and could not pay a cash tax. In 1794, the rebels attacked tax collectors and burned buildings in protest. This was called the Whiskey Rebellion. Washington sent troops to crush the rebellion and show the nation that the U.S. would not tolerate violent rebellion. You could peacefully protest, but no violence. 1794

The Whiskey Rebellion

Conflicts with Native Americans Native Americans east of the Mississippi River refused to listen to the U.S. and even got Spain and Britain involved in their skirmishes.

British Interference Washington wanted to sign treaties with the Native Americans to keep foreign nations out of our country. However, Americans continued to move into Native American land. Fearing that France would come in and help the Americans, Great Britain encouraged Native Americans to destroy American settlements in the territory.

French Revolution In 1789, the French Revolution began with the support of the American people. However, by 1793 it turned violent and bloody. Americans were then divided over the French Revolution.

French Revolution

Britain and France at War In 1793, Britain and France went to war. Hamilton and Adams supported Great Britain and Jefferson supported France. Washington wanted to remain neutral and passed the Proclamation of Neutrality to stop Americans from helping France or Britain.

Proclamation of Neutrality

British Impressing U.S. Sailors Despite Washington’s proclamation, many Americans helped the French attack British ships. The Americans felt they owed France loyalty for their aid during the American Revolution. The British Navy began impressing American sailors into the British Navy by force - often kidnapping them.

Jay’s Treaty These actions pressed the United States towards war with Great Britain. Washington wanted to avoid going to war so Jay’s Treaty was signed between the U.S. and Britain to stop the threat of war. The British agreed to withdraw from American soil, but said nothing about American sailors. Americans were angry that the treaty did not deal with the issue of impressment.

Pinckney’s Treaty In 1795, Pinckney’s Treaty was signed between Spain and the United States improving relations with Spain, giving the United States the right to use the Mississippi River and to trade in New Orleans. Spain was nervous that the U.S. and G.B. would now work together due to Jay’s Treaty.

Washington’s Farewell In 1796, Washington set a precedent by refusing a third term. (Most presidents would only serve two terms.)

Setting another Precedent

Washington’s Advice: U.S. should stay out of foreign affairs unless they directly impact the nation U.S. should never create political parties, it will divide the nation

Did we listen?

Did we listen?