- Library of Congress
Although the word “iconic” is widely overused, some historical events truly fit the description. The Boston Tea Party is one. It has captured the imagination of generations of school children and inspired theatrical protests in societies around the world.
The famous “tax on tea” came after a series of attempts to tax the American colonies.
During the eighteenth century Britain and France fought several wars for control of North America. In 1756, British victory in the “French and Indian War” settled the issue but left the British government deeply in debt. Requiring the colonies to pay more for their own defense seemed logical to many in London.
In Boston the view was very different. Increased taxes at any level were a burden. A three day fire in 1760 had devastated the town. Lacking fire insurance many families were wiped out financially. A small pox epidemic followed in 1764 further weakening the town and its prospects. Some merchants experienced severe losses when spending for military supplies ended after the French and Indian War.
First came the Stamp Act in 1765 requiring that revenue stamps be affixed to various documents including wills, newspapers, and legal agreements. Violent protests led to its repeal. In 1768 the British government made another attempt with the Townsend Acts, taxes on lead, paper, glass and tea.
Colonists protested “taxation without representation” by an out of touch London government.
After the 1770 Boston Massacre all Townsend duties were repealed except one – the tax on tea. It was reinforced by the Tea Act of 1773.