The Lesson in Taxation Practices, Section 5: Taxes and The Romans

W. Marc Gilfillan, CPA, NC, individual and business CPA and Tax expert, shares about the history of taxes…

Finally getting away from Greece, we now are at the Roman Empire. Historians often speak of Roman taxation as “more or less legal robbery” and Roman tax collectors as “a band of thugs.” However, Roman taxation was not always bad. There was a 200-year section at the zenith of the Roman Empire when taxes were moderate. Actually, every kind of tax, as well as no taxes, marked the Roman period. Taxes were 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 every indirect tax and create a “wonderful present to the human race.” If you are feeling the pressure with today’s taxes, call a Tax Preparer in Cary, NC for all your tax-related needs!

The Roman Republic - The Early Years

The early Roman Republic did not require much taxation because it operated with free labor. The military, which can be the most expensive operation in every society, was a citizen’s army, composed 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 magistrates served the city 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 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 is not necessary to limit 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, similar to many ancient civilizations, used the great men of their society to handle tax assessments. Taxpayers loved and admired these men, and no doubt the integrity of these powerful men rubbed off on the taxpayers. By contrast, modern tax systems use professional public relations officers to manipulate taxpayers with advertising campaigns that play on 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/