Why did Washington send troops to crush the Whiskey Rebellion?

Washington sent troops to crush the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794 to assert federal authority and maintain order. The rebellion arose in response to a tax on whiskey, which many farmers viewed as unfair. By dispatching troops, Washington aimed to demonstrate that the federal government had the power to enforce its laws and to prevent the disintegration of the new nation. This action reinforced the principle that dissent must be addressed through lawful means, not violence.