The History of Taxes: Fair Contributions or Legal Extortion?

The topic of taxes has always generated controversy. Some see them as a fair and necessary contribution for the functioning of society, while others consider it a form of legalized extortion by governments. From ancient tributes in kind to modern tax systems, the history of taxes is full of debates, revolts, and, in many cases, a lack of equity in their distribution. But, how did taxes begin? What did people receive in exchange for their contributions? And, above all, is the current tax system legitimate?

The First Taxes: Tributes and Contributions in Antiquity

Taxes, in their most primitive form, existed since the first civilizations organized themselves into structured societies. In ancient Mesopotamia, around 3000 BC, the first forms of tribute were demanded in kind. Farmers, for example, delivered part of their harvest to the king or temple in exchange for protection and to finance public works, such as the construction of canals and temples. This collection system was not always equitable and was often established based on the power of the rulers.

In ancient Egypt, the pharaoh controlled practically everything: the land, the people, and the goods. Farmers paid taxes in the form of grain, livestock, or forced labor. Although the pharaoh used these resources to maintain his power and build grandiose monuments, he also financed works that benefited the population, such as irrigation systems that guaranteed the fertility of the lands.

During the Roman Empire, more sophisticated taxes were introduced, such as the census (a wealth tax) and the tributum capitis (a poll tax per person). Tax collectors, known as publicans, often abused their power to extract more than was due, generating resentment among the population. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ himself mentions the injustice of the collectors, pointing them out as unpopular and disliked figures.

Did People Receive Something in Return? The Investment of Taxes in Antiquity

Despite taxes often being considered unfair, in some eras, the population received a return on their investment. In ancient Rome, for example, roads, aqueducts, and public baths were built with the funds collected. The Romans also had a basic welfare system, the annona, which distributed wheat to the poorest population of the city. Although these services did not justify the entire amount of taxes collected, they did offer something in return.

On the other hand, this was not always the case. Many times, taxes were used to finance endless wars and the luxuries of the ruling classes. This situation led to revolts throughout history. Perhaps one of the most famous tales of resistance against unfair taxes is that of Robin Hood, who rebelled against the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham, a representative of a government that squeezed its people to finance the whims of the nobles.

The real dilemma in the history of taxes is not how much was paid, but how those resources were spent. Often, promises of prosperity were not fulfilled, and taxes became more of a burden than a contribution to society.

Revolts and Fiscal Rebellions: When People Said "Enough"

The injustice of taxes led to revolts at different times in history. The Peasants' Revolt in England in 1381 was triggered by the introduction of a poll tax, which was perceived as blatant theft. In France, popular discontent over high taxes was one of the causes that triggered the French Revolution in 1789, and the famous phrase “Let them eat cake” attributed (incorrectly) to Marie Antoinette reflects the disconnect between the elite and the people.

In America, colonists demanded independence from the British Empire with the famous cry of “No taxation without representation” (No taxes without representation). The colonists complained that they were being taxed without having a voice in the British Parliament, which led to the American War of Independence.

Taxes in Modern Times: Where Do Our Taxes Go?

Today, taxes are more complicated than ever. There are income taxes, sales taxes, property taxes, and even inheritance taxes. And although they may be necessary to maintain public services, infrastructure, and social welfare, in many countries, citizens question whether their taxes are being used fairly.

For example, a large portion of the taxes goes to bureaucratic salaries and military spending. A recent study indicated that many countries invest more in armaments than in education or health. This raises the question: Are the needs of society truly prioritized? The disparity in resource allocation and corruption in many tax systems makes many view taxes as a necessary evil rather than a fair contribution.

Robin Hood vs. the Modern Tax System

Today, the question of the legality or fairness of taxes persists. Robin Hood fought against an oppressive system that took from the poor to give to the rich. Today, many feel that the system has not changed much: large corporations pay minimal percentages in taxes, while workers and small business owners bear the brunt of the tax burden.

Instead of roads and schools, many taxpayers' money goes to politicians' salaries, inflated contracts, and colossal military budgets. In many places, the average citizen wonders: “Where are the improvements in education, health, and public transportation that I am paying for?”

The Debate Continues

The history of taxes is complex and full of nuances. What began as a form of contribution for the common good has become, in many cases, an oppressive and poorly managed structure. Although there is no doubt that taxes are necessary for the functioning of any society, the real question is whether these are managed fairly and equitably.

Perhaps it is time to ask ourselves: What would Robin Hood think of the current tax system? Would he continue to rob from the rich to give to the poor, or would he be out of a job because the rich no longer pay almost anything? The history of taxes reminds us that, at the end of the day, citizens have the right to question and demand that their contributions are used fairly and transparently.