Sugar Act of 1764
Definition
The Sugar Act was a law passed by British Parliament designed to raise revenue from American colonists by taxing sugar and molasses imported into the colonies.
Analogy
It's like when you've been freely enjoying your favorite candy at home, then one day your parents decide you have to start paying them a small fee every time you want some. That's what the Sugar Act did - it made colonists pay for something they were used to getting without extra charge.
Related terms
Stamp Act: A law passed by British Parliament that imposed tax on printed materials in the colonies.
Taxation Without Representation: A slogan used by American colonists to protest against British taxes, arguing they had no representation in Parliament and therefore should not be taxed.
American Revolution: The war fought by the Thirteen American colonies for independence from Britain, partly triggered by laws like the Sugar Act.
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