Lantern Tax
Location :
France (18th Century)
Impact :
Increased the cost of public lighting, affecting urban safety and nighttime activities.
How it worked:
A tax on street lanterns, intended to generate revenue from urban lighting infrastructure.
Summary:
The Lantern Tax in 18th-century France was a tax on street lanterns, introduced to generate revenue from urban lighting infrastructure.
This tax increased the cost of public lighting, affecting urban safety and nighttime activities. The higher costs often led to reduced public lighting, impacting the quality of life in urban areas.
The Lantern Tax highlights how taxation on public infrastructure can influence urban development and safety.
The Street Light Levy

TRIVIA QUESTIONS
When was the Street Light Levy introduced in France?
1766
Which government implemented the Street Light Levy in France?
The government under King Louis XV
What was the primary reason for introducing the Street Light Levy?
To fund the installation and maintenance of street lighting in Paris and other major cities
Which items or activities were primarily targeted by the Street Light Levy?
Property ownership, particularly houses and businesses in urban areas
How was the Street Light Levy collected?
As a tax on property owners in cities where street lighting was being installed
What was a common reaction of the public to the Street Light Levy?
Mixed reactions, with some supporting the improved safety and aesthetics and others opposing the additional tax burden
How did the Street Light Levy impact urban life in the 18th century?
It significantly improved nighttime safety and commerce by illuminating streets and public areas
Which social class was most affected by the Street Light Levy?
Urban property owners, including both wealthy merchants and middle-class residents
What was one method used by people to avoid paying the Street Light Levy?
Protesting or petitioning against the tax, or underreporting property values
Who was responsible for enforcing the Street Light Levy?
Local municipal authorities and tax collectors
When did the Street Light Levy decline in significance or end?
Late 18th century, during the French Revolution, as many old tax systems were abolished
What broader historical context surrounded the introduction of the Street Light Levy?
A period of urban modernization and efforts to improve public infrastructure and safety in France's growing cities
