John Adams' Direct Tax Act: Controversial measure for anticipated war funds.

President John Adams signed "An Act to lay and collect a direct tax within the United States" to impose a tax on dwellings, land, and slaves, aimed at raising funds for an anticipated war with France. This was enabled by an administrative structure established earlier, which set up lists and property assessments and empowered commissioners. The tax aimed to generate necessary funds quickly but faced widespread opposition from the public. Critics argued that such measures threatened the financial stability of many citizens and could strain government resources. While some saw it as necessary for national defense, others viewed it as an overreach. The law's temporary nature did little to quell dissent, making it a contentious part of Adams' administration. #Taxation #USHistory #JohnAdams #FiscalPolicy #MoofLife