The History of Taxation, Part Five: Tax Law and Romans
W. Marc Gilfillan, CPA, NC, individual and business CPA and Tax expert, shares about the history of taxes…
Now that we are getting away from Greece, we now are at the Roman Empire. Historians usually refer to Roman taxation as “more or less organized stealing” and Roman tax collectors as “a bunch of thieves.” However, Roman tax law was not always corrupt. There was a 200-year period at the zenith of the Roman Empire when taxation was modest. Actually, every kind of tax, as well as no taxation, characterized the Roman period. Taxation was as vital but as unpredictable in the Roman Empire as were the legions, the Senate and the Caesars. The half-mad emperor Nero once offered to abolish all indirect taxes 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!
The Roman Empire – The Early Years
The early Roman Republic required little taxation because it operated with free labor. The army, which is arguably the greatest expense in any civilization, was a citizen’s military, comprised of land-owners who served for a year without pay. They even provided their own uniforms and equipment. This spirit of volunteer free public service inspired most government offices. Even the judges worked for the government without pay. It is difficult to understand the importance of this ancient practice, especially in our age, when no one seems willing to lift a finger for the government without a fat paycheck. Go here if you want help with modern-day Tax Preparation in Cary, NC.
The best method in reducing heavy taxation is to instil in every citizen a spirit of selfless service for the public good. It isn’t needed to limit public programs and services; what is necessary is the curtailment of the spirit of gain and profit that infects public servants and contractors.
The Romans, similar to many ancient civilizations, used the great men of their society to handle taxation. Taxpayers loved and admired these men, and no doubt the integrity of these great men rubbed off on the taxpayers. By contrast, modern tax practices use professional public relations contractors to manipulate taxpayers with advertising campaigns that utilize fear more than integrity. Trouble began, however, when Roman armies lived off of the populace 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/
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