After the American Revolutionary War, many states raised taxes to pay off their war debts. Small farmers were often unable to pay the high taxes, which usually resulted in their property being confiscated. In Massachusetts, Daniel Shays, a veteran of the Continental Army, led a rebellion of poor farmers who demanded debt relief, lower taxes, and protections against property seizures. The rebellion, which began in late 1786 and lasted until early 1787, convinced many people that the federal government needed stronger powers to protect the economic rights of individuals against local policies.



According to Article 1, why did Massachusetts raise taxes on citizens, and what about the currency of the time made it difficult for citizens to pay these taxes?