which of the following describes the Sugar Act a. smugglers support the tax because it forced merchants to pay b. it removed the tax on molasses c. it called for more customs officials d. it enforced existing laws regarding taxes on molasses.
c. it called for more customs officials
The correct answer is c. The Sugar Act called for more customs officials.
To determine the correct answer, let me take you through the process of analyzing each of the options and providing explanations for each:
a. Smugglers support the tax because it forced merchants to pay.
This statement is incorrect because smugglers typically oppose taxes since it makes their illegal activities more difficult. This option can be eliminated.
b. It removed the tax on molasses.
Although the Sugar Act did make some changes to the tax on molasses, it did not remove it entirely. Therefore, this option is also incorrect.
c. It called for more customs officials.
This option is correct. The Sugar Act, which was passed by the British Parliament in 1764, aimed to increase enforcement of customs laws in the American colonies. This involved hiring and assigning more customs officials to oversee and collect duties on imports, including molasses.
d. It enforced existing laws regarding taxes on molasses.
This statement is partially correct, but it does not fully describe the Sugar Act. While the act did enforce existing laws related to taxes on molasses, it also included additional provisions to strengthen customs regulations and increase revenue collection.
In conclusion, the correct answer is:
c. It called for more customs officials.