The Great Taxes vs Tariff Debate Since 1880 til Now!

Dive into this Home School history lesson exploring the Great Debate of 1880 over taxes vs. tariffs as the primary method of generating revenue for the U.S. Government. In this video, we break down the key arguments for tariffs, including protection of American industries, reliance on import duties, and the belief that tariffs were a fair, indirect tax that didn’t burden everyday citizens. We also cover the major arguments for federal taxes, such as the push for a more equitable revenue system, the call for reduced tariffs, and efforts to limit the power of monopolies and reduce costs for consumers. Learn how politicians, economists, and everyday Americans viewed tariff policy, income taxation, federal revenue, and economic growth in the late 19th century. This lesson clearly explains why the 1880 tax vs. tariff debate became a defining issue in U.S. politics and how it shaped future tax policy, trade policy, and government funding. Perfect for students, Homeschool families, and anyone interested in American history, economic debates, and the evolution of government revenue strategies.