The Origin and History of Federal Inheritance Taxation in the United States

One of the most important sources of revenue in the United States is the inheritance tax. It is imposed by both Federal and State governments, and the receipts from it are very great. The historical basis of inheritance taxes has already been demonstrated by eminent writers, scholars, and in the reported decisions of our courts. This paper is not concerned with its merits, or lack of them, as a source of revenue for either Federal or State Governments, but rather is intended to show the origin of the tax and, within the limits hereinafter stated, something of its history in this country.