Single Tax Party facts for kids
The Single Tax Party was a political group in the United States that focused on one main idea: a special kind of tax. It began in 1910 as the Land Value Tax Party. Later, for the 1924 presidential election, it changed its name to the Commonwealth Land Party.
This party's main goal was to put into practice ideas from a famous American thinker named Henry George. He was a political economist, which means he studied how countries manage their money and resources. George believed in a simple tax system called Georgism.
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What Was the Single Tax Idea?
The main idea behind the Single Tax Party was to have just one big tax. This tax would be based on the value of land, not on buildings or improvements made to the land. Henry George thought this kind of tax would be fair and help everyone.
He believed that the value of land often goes up because of things like population growth and community development, not just because of what the landowner does. So, he thought that this increased value should be shared by everyone through a single tax. This idea is part of a bigger way of thinking called free-market principles, which means letting people and businesses make their own choices with less government control.
Why a Single Tax on Land?
The party believed that taxing land value would encourage people to use land wisely. It would also make land more affordable for everyone. They thought it would help reduce poverty and make society more equal. This was a big idea for tax reform, which means changing how taxes are collected and used.
Who Ran for President?
The party, under its different names, put forward candidates for president and vice-president.
Presidential Candidates in 1920
- In 1920, the party's candidates were:
- President: Robert C. MacCauley
- Vice-president: Carrie Chapman Catt
Presidential Candidates in 1924
- In 1924, when the party was called the Commonwealth Land Party, the candidates were:
- President: William J. Wallace
- Vice-president: John C. Lincoln
