On the record
Some manufactures we could make, but are forbidden, and must take them of British merchants: the whole price is a tax paid to Britain.
Source
gutenberg.orgBenjamin Franklin: “Some manufactures we could make, but are forbidden, and must take them of British merchants: the whole price is a tax…”
Editor's note · Context
Franklin argues that colonial restrictions on manufacturing force them to rely on British merchants, which he views as a form of taxation.
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That compelling the colonies to pay money without their consent, would be rather like raising contributions in an enemy's country, than taxing of Englishmen for their own public benefit.
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They have ever been applied with prudent frugality to the honour and advantage of the public, and the king's immediate service, to the general approbation of the people: the credit of the government has been preserved, and the debts of the…
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