Why Do We Pay Taxes?

By Joseph Daniel
1. What is an example of how local taxes might be used?
2. In 1913, income tax was reinstated (brought back). Why did this happen?
3. In your own opinion, why do you think it is important we pay taxes? Make
sure you respond in your own words as if you are explaining to a friend.
4. Explain the events around The Boston Tea Party and how the event related
to taxes.
5. When was the first time the United States enacted a temporary income tax?
6. Where does the largest segment of revenue for the Federal Government
come from?
 1. What is an example of how local taxes might be used?


Schools

Police departments

Fire departments

Road maintenance

Libraries

Parks and recreation
 2. In 1913, income tax was reinstated (brought back). Why did this happen?


To make up lost revenue

Partially shift the burden to the high earners to fund the government
3. In your own opinion, why do you think it is important we pay taxes? Make
sure you respond in your own words as if you are explaining to a friend.

The only beneficial thing to come from taxes would be universal healthcare
and we don’t have that
4. Explain the events around The Boston Tea Party and how the event related
to taxes.


Britain began taxation without representation (pay with no say in the
government)

The colonies wanted a voice and didn’t like the increases in taxes so the
threw British tea overboard into the harbor
5. When was the first time the United States enacted a temporary income tax?


1861
 6. Where does the largest segment of revenue for the Federal Government
come from?


51% comes from income tax