The Use of the Shays' Rebellion in the Ratification Debates

During the ratification debates, Federalists referenced the Shays' Rebellion as justification for proposing a constitution with more power for the general government than under the Articles of Confederation. Alexander Hamilton and Henry Lee highlighted that the weak central government's inability to pay veterans after the American Revolution led to the conflict. While Antifederalists didn't see the rebellion as positive, they viewed the problem's source differently, emphasizing the lack of power in Congress. The debate showcased differing perspectives on the role of strong central government in preventing similar uprisings.