Stamp Act: Introduction: What Are We Doing Here? Summary

So…Why Do We Need This Law Anyway? And How Much Are We Charging?

• The British crown needs a new tax to pay for the Seven Years War and put some troops in the Americas.
• That's this tax.
• The next fifty-five lines explain how much every possible document (and dice and playing cards) will cost under the Stamp Act. Knowing how much isn't all that important unless you're writing a book on the Stamp Act.
• Here's a quick list of what's covered:
  • Legal documents
  • School diplomas
  • Petitions to courts or officials
  • Professional licenses
  • Bills and receipts
  • Liquor licenses
  • Land surveys
  • Deeds to property
  • Contracts
  • Passports
  • Playing cards and dice
  • Newspapers and almanacs