When was the Brew Levy introduced in the United Kingdom?

1690s

Which government implemented the Brew Levy in the United Kingdom?

The British government under King William III

What was the primary reason for introducing the Brew Levy?

To raise revenue for the government, particularly to fund military campaigns such as the War of the Grand Alliance

Which items were primarily targeted by the Brew Levy?

Beer, ale, and other brewed beverages

How was the Brew Levy collected?

As a tax on the production and sale of beer and ale

What was a common reaction of the public to the Brew Levy?

Opposition from brewers and consumers due to increased costs of beer and ale

How did the Brew Levy impact the brewing industry in the 18th and 19th centuries?

It increased the cost of brewing, leading to higher prices for consumers and affecting small-scale brewers

Which social class was most affected by the Brew Levy?

Working-class individuals who consumed beer and ale as staple beverages

What was one method used by brewers to avoid paying the Brew Levy?

Illegally brewing beer at home or underreporting production volumes

Which famous British brewer opposed the Brew Levy and campaigned against it?

Samuel Whitbread

When was the Brew Levy repealed or significantly reduced?

In the early 19th century, as part of broader tax reforms under the administration of Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger

What broader historical context surrounded the introduction of the Brew Levy?

A period of extensive military expenditure and economic challenges requiring increased government revenue