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SPRINGFIELD, Mass.: Join us on January 25, 2020 for a day of presentations and discussion all about the compelling events of Shays’ Rebellion in 1786 and 1787.

While “Shays’ Rebellion” is often seen through an elite perspective of agrarian unrest by western Massachusetts farmers in 1786 and 1787, other viewpoints saw “Regulators” and their long campaign against unjust taxes.  This crisis was by no means simple. It has a complex relationship not only with the history that preceded it, but also had a profound effect on the young United States moving forward. From the French and Indian War and the American Revolution to the Constitutional Conventions; from populist resistance movements to the exercise of a powerful centralized government, we may find that Shays’ Rebellion is not simply a local story with local meanings.

The Friends of Springfield Armory National Historic Site is proud to partner with Springfield Technical Community College, the National Park Service, and Pioneer Valley History Network to bring together a slate of six speakers, each presenting a different perspective on the local rebellion with far-reaching implications. Each bank of speakers will be followed by panel discussions and robust audience question and answer sessions.

The symposium will be held in the theater of Scibelli Hall (Building 2) on the campus of Springfield Technical Community College (STCC), near the site of the largest clash of the uprising, where thousands of Shaysites clashed with militia at Springfield Arsenal on January 25, 1787. Doors will open at 8am on January 25, 2020, and presentations will begin at 9am. Admission is $6 per seat, and box lunches are available for $10. Snow Date is January 26, 2020 .

For tickets and lunch click the Header Button.  We anticipate a full turnout, get tickets early,