Edward I: A Lesson In Taxation

ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Josh Walker (Creator)
Institution
Appalachian State University (ASU )
Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Advisor
Mary Ann Hofmann

Abstract: Equality in taxation is a problem much discussed because of the importance that taxes play in the lives of individual citizens. However, it is a problem impossible to solve through methods of implementation. Rather, it is an issue of occasion and convenience, and therefore, mechanism. This thesis uses the specific historical ex- ample of the crown government of Edward I of England as a resource of understanding. The reign of Edward I was a period where questions involving the equality and right of taxation were posed, and the king answered them popularly, which contributed to a wildly successful reign. However, unlike more politicized attempts at using the past to verify drawn conclusions in the modern era, this thesis looks to allow history to address the problem itself. A plethora of historical authorities both primary and secondary to the study of Edward I and a wide variety of studies on the philosophy and development of the modern U.S. Tax system were used to draw conclusions from the past to benefit our current perspective. The results of this research yielded the following conclusions: that a traditional policy of taxation and popular acceptance to any change in that policy, temporary or permanent, are necessary for general acceptance of any tax burden. This would require a new perspective in regards to how we relate taxes to the individual. Likewise, the tax system of the United States would require alteration before either of these principles were put into effect creating an extraordinary rippling effect throughout the entire governmental process. However, if the conclusions drawn can ascend into popular acceptance, it would be a worthy effort to make.

Additional Information

Publication
Honors Project
Walker, J. (2016). Edward I: A Lesson In Taxation. Unpublished Honors Thesis. Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
Language: English
Date: 2016
Keywords
Edward I, medieval parliamentary representation, U.S. Congress, Federal tax, congressional representation

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