1. Increased Taxation: The government imposed higher taxes on various items such as tobacco, alcohol, and luxury goods. An income tax was also introduced for the first time in 1862, ranging from 3% to 5% on incomes above a certain threshold.
2. Revenue Acts: The Revenue Act of 1862 was passed, establishing excise taxes on manufactured goods and services. It was revised in 1864 and 1865, increasing tax rates and expanding the range of taxable goods.
3. Internal Revenue Service (IRS): In 1862, the IRS was established to enforce and collect internal taxes. It was tasked with auditing taxpayer records and collecting revenue.
4. Printing Money: The US government resorted to printing money to cover war expenses, leading to inflation and a rise in prices.
5. Borrowing: The government issued bonds to raise funds, borrowing money from investors and promising to repay it with interest after a specified period. This contributed to the increase in the national debt.
6. Tax-in-Kind Payments: The government accepted supplies, such as food and horses, from farmers and merchants in exchange for tax credits or payment.
7. Public Land Sales: The government accelerated the sale of public land, offering it at reduced prices to raise revenue.
8. Banking Acts: The National Banking Acts of 1863 and 1864 were enacted to regulate and stabilize the banking system, facilitating the issuance of government bonds and attracting investment.
9. Loans and Grants from Foreign Banks and Individuals: The Union received loans and grants from European bankers, particularly in France, as well as from wealthy individuals who supported the Northern cause.
10. Confiscating Property: In some cases, Union forces confiscated property and valuables from Confederates and southern sympathizers to fund the war.
These efforts aimed to generate the necessary revenue to support the war efforts, including maintaining armies, purchasing supplies, and managing the economy. The Civil War had a significant impact on the US economy, altering fiscal policies and leaving a lasting legacy of debt and inflation.