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Income Tax: John Bull scratches his head at William Pitts (1759-1806) introduction
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Income Tax: John Bull scratches his head at William Pitts (1759-1806) introduction
Income Tax: John Bull scratches his head at William Pitts (1759-1806) introduction of Income Tax. Pitt is shown as angel playing harp. Hand-coloured cartoon in style of Gillray: 1798
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Media ID 9785947
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
1798 Angel Bull Cartoon Gillray Government Hand Coloured Harp Head Introduction John Pitt Playing Shown Style William 1759 1806 Income Scratches
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This print from Universal Images Group (UIG) takes us back to the year 1798, when William Pitt (1759-1806), an influential British politician, introduced the concept of income tax. The hand-coloured cartoon, created in the distinctive style of Gillray, depicts John Bull scratching his head in confusion at this new government policy. In this satirical artwork, Pitt is portrayed as an angel playing a harp. This clever representation suggests that while Pitt may have seen himself as a heavenly figure bringing about positive change through income tax, ordinary English citizens like John Bull are left perplexed and uncertain about its implications. The image captures the essence of public sentiment towards this groundbreaking introduction. It reflects the skepticism and bewilderment felt by many British people during that time period regarding their financial obligations to the government. Through its artistic composition and intricate details, this historical print offers us a glimpse into both political and societal dynamics of late 18th-century Britain. It serves as a reminder that even significant governmental decisions can be met with mixed reactions from those they affect most directly. As we observe this thought-provoking image today, it prompts us to reflect on how taxation has evolved over centuries and continues to shape our societies worldwide.
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![Britannia between death and the doctors, Gillray, James, 1756-1815, artist, [London]](/sq/694/britannia-death-doctors-gillray-james-12957391.jpg.webp)
