The colonists argued that they were not directly represented in the British Parliament, which was responsible for levying taxes. They believed that taxation without representation was a violation of their rights as British subjects and went against the fundamental principles of democracy and self-government.
Unjust and excessive taxes:
Many of the taxes imposed by the British government were considered unfair and excessive by the colonists. They saw these taxes as a form of economic oppression and a way for the British authorities to extract revenue from the colonies without their consent. Some of the taxes were perceived as being particularly burdensome and unnecessary, such as the Stamp Act, which required a tax stamp on all printed materials.
Lack of local control over financial matters:
The colonists wanted to have more control over their own financial affairs and the ability to make decisions about how their money was spent. They resented the fact that the British government was imposing taxes without considering the needs and interests of the colonies. They believed that they had the right to determine how their resources were used and that decisions about taxation should be made locally.
Desire for self-governance and autonomy:
Underlying the objection to British taxation was a broader desire for self-governance and autonomy. Many colonists aspired to have a greater say in the administration and governance of their own colonies, and they viewed the taxes imposed by the British government as a symbol of external control and domination. They wanted to be free to make their own laws and decisions, without being subject to the authority of a distant government.
Constitutional principles:
Some colonists argued that the British government was violating the fundamental constitutional principles and legal rights of the colonists. They believed that the taxes were unconstitutional and exceeded the powers granted to the British government under the existing legal framework. They held that the British government had no right to tax the colonists without their consent, and they challenged the legality and legitimacy of the taxes.