The Whiskey Rebellion was a violent tax protest in the United States that occurred from 1791 to 1794. Farmers in western Pennsylvania opposed a federal excise tax on whiskey, which they relied on for income. The tax was part of Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton's plan to reduce national debt, but many viewed it as unfair and burdensome. In 1794, the situation escalated when protesters attacked tax collectors and government officials. In response, President George Washington sent federal troops to quell the rebellion, demonstrating the government's authority to enforce its laws. The rebellion ultimately ended without significant bloodshed, reinforcing the power of the federal government.