W. Marc Gilfillan, CPA, NC, individual and business CPA and Tax expert, shares about the history of taxes…
Finally moving away from Greece, we finally are at the Roman Empire. Scholars often refer to Roman tax policy as “more or less legal robbery” and Roman tax collectors as “a bunch of thieves.” But Roman taxation wasn’t always bad. There was a 200-year section at the zenith of the Roman Empire when taxes were modest. Actually, every kind of tax, as well as no taxes, marked the Roman period. Taxes were as vital yet as unpredictable in the Roman Empire as were the legions, the Senate and the Caesars. The arguably insane emperor Nero once offered to abolish every indirect tax and create an “amazing present to the human race.” If you’re feeling the pressure with today’s taxes, call a Tax Preparer in Cary, NC for all your tax-related needs!
Romans – The Early Years
The early Roman Republic required little taxation because it operated with free labor. The military, which is arguably the greatest expense in any civilization, was a citizen’s military, comprised of land-owners who served for 1 year without pay. They even brought their own uniforms and gear. This level of volunteer free public service inspired all government offices. Even the judges worked for the government for free. It is hard to conceive the validity of this ancient practice, especially in our individualistic society, where nobody seems to want to raise a finger for the government without a fat paycheck. Go here if you want help with modern-day Tax Preparation in Durham, NC.
The best method in reducing heavy taxation is to instil in every citizen a spirit of selfless service for the public good. It is not necessary to curtail public programs and services; what is needed is the curtailment of the spirit of gain and profit that infests public figures and contractors.
The Romans, like many ancient civilizations, used the important people of their civilization to deal with tax law. Taxpayers loved and admired these men, and no doubt the integrity of these great men rubbed off on the taxpayers. In contrast, modern tax practices use professional public relations officers to manipulate taxpayers with advertising techniques that utilize fear more than integrity. Trouble began, however, when Roman armies began living off of the people and collected tribute in block form called “stipendium”.
Keep an eye out for W. Marc Gilfillan’s next chapter in his History of Taxes series: Taxes and the American Revolution.
http://www.marccpa.com/
Recent Comments