1. Public Protests and Meetings: Farmers organized public meetings and protests to voice their opposition to the tax and express their grievances against the federal government. They held rallies and demonstrations to garner support and spread awareness.
2. Tax Collector Intimidation: Some farmers engaged in intimidating the tax collectors who were responsible for enforcing the excise tax. They threatened and harassed the tax officials to prevent them from carrying out their duties.
3. Attacks on Tax Collection: In certain instances, farmers resorted to violent attacks on tax collectors and their properties. They sometimes tarred and feathered tax officials, vandalized their homes and businesses, and used force to resist the collection of taxes.
4. Blockading Roads: Farmers blocked roads and bridges to disrupt the transportation and distribution of whiskey. By preventing the movement of goods, they aimed to pressure the government into reconsidering the tax and addressing their demands.
5. Forming Militias: Some farmers organized themselves into militias and engaged in armed resistance against federal authorities. These militias were led by local leaders who coordinated their activities and prepared to defend their communities against potential military intervention.
6. Petitions and Negotiators: Some farmers chose a nonviolent approach by sending petitions and appointing negotiators to communicate their concerns and demands to federal officials. They sought to resolve the conflict peacefully through dialogue and negotiation.
7. Distilleries Shutdown: Many farmers collectively agreed to shut down their distilleries as a form of economic resistance. By ceasing production, they aimed to demonstrate the negative impact of the tax on their livelihoods and the local economy.
8. Political Pressure: The farmers also exerted political pressure by influencing local elections and gaining representation in state legislatures. They elected officials who were sympathetic to their cause and could advocate for their interests.
These actions culminated in the Whiskey Rebellion, which involved clashes between farmers and federal troops sent to quell the uprising. The rebellion ultimately led to the passage of the Whiskey Excise Tax Repeal Act of 1802, effectively ending the tax on distilled spirits.