Ship Money

Ship Money was a tax imposed by King Charles I of England in the 17th century. Originally, it was meant to fund maritime defenses and was levied only on coastal towns. However, Charles I extended it to inland areas without Parliament’s approval, claiming it was a royal prerogative. This move angered many and fueled discontent over the king’s authority. The tax became controversial because it was seen as an unlawful levy, contributing to tensions that eventually led to the English Civil War. Essentially, Ship Money was a royal tax that challenged traditional rights and sparked political unrest.