In 1794, when the Whiskey Rebellion broke out in western Pennsylvania, Washington personally led a force of militia to quell the uprising. He believed that the rebellion was a direct challenge to the authority of the federal government and that it had to be put down quickly and firmly. Washington's actions were successful, and the rebellion was quickly defeated.
Washington's response to the Whiskey Rebellion set a precedent for future presidents. When faced with rebellions, presidents would often take swift action to suppress them, using military force if necessary. This approach was generally effective in maintaining order and preventing rebellions from spreading.