Early Challenges For Washington Aim – How did the new government keep peace at home and stay neutral in foreign affairs?

The Whiskey Rebellion A new tax on liquor angered farmers who turned their corn into whiskey and lead to rebellion in western Pennsylvania. A rebellion is an organized uprising against authority When federal officers stepped up efforts to collect the tax, a mob of about 500 people armed with swords, guns, and pitchforks attacked the tax collectors. This protest was called the Whiskey Rebellion.

Washington’s Decision Washington and his advisers decided to crush the challenge. The rebellion collapsed as soon as the army crossed the Appalachians.

Another Precedent By his actions, Washington made it clear to citizens that if they wanted a law to change, they would have to do so peacefully, through the Constitution. Government would use force when necessary.

Struggle Over the West Britain, who owned forts in the west, tried to convince Native Americans to burn American settlements west of the Appalachian Mountains. Washington sent in an army to challenge these actions. The Native Americans were defeated at the Battle of Fallen Timber (Ohio). In the Treaty of Greenville, Native Americans gave up most of their land in present day Ohio.

Problems With Europe After Washington’s Inauguration, the French Revolution began.

The Reign of Terror At first most Americans supported the French, who earlier had helped in the American Revolution. By 1793 the French Revolution had turned bloody, beheading not only the king and queen, but thousands of citizens as well. This violence offended many Americans and was known as the “Reign of Terror.”

War in Europe Britain and France go to war in 1793. Washington hopes to remain neutral. Thus creating the Neutrality Proclamation of 1793.

Neutrality: Easier Said Than Done!!! Many Americans want to trade with both Britain and France. France sends Edmond Genet to recruit American volunteers to attack British ships. The British seize and destroy American ships trading with France. Impressment – British ships seize American ships and force our sailors to serve in the British Navy.

Alas, We Remain Neutral Washing sends John Jay to Britain to negotiate one last chance for peace. Jay’s Treaty – Britain pays for damaged ships and gives up forts in the west.

Washington’s Farewell In spring of 1796, Washington announces that he would not seek a third term. He warned America against the evils of political parties. Also urged that we steer clear of permanent alliances, and stay out of foreign affairs (business) An alliance is an agreement between countries to protect each other