State Historical Society of Iowa

Tax Rates on Common Imports to United States, May 16, 1789

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Chart from 1789 showing the tax rates on some common imports into the United States.
Courtesy of Library of Congress, "An act for laying a duty on goods, wares, and merchandizes, imported into the United States," pp. 1, 16 May 1789

Description

This chart from 1789 shows the tax rates on some common imports into the United States. Imports include such commodities like distilled spirits, brown sugar, coffee and cheese. 

 

Transcript of Tax Rates on Common Imports to United States in 1789

Source-Dependent Questions

  • What reason does the document give for why taxes need to be placed on the imported goods listed above?
  • What are some common imports coming into the United States at this time?
  • Compare this document to Thomas Jefferson's letter and the English Map of Grenada. Why would the United States select these particular items for taxation?

Citation Information 

"An act for laying a duty on goods, wares, and merchandizes, imported into the United States," pp. 1, 16 May 1789. Courtesy of Library of Congress