Who’s Paying For It?
Posted by Trésor KayumbaThe famous French and Indian War, 1754-1763 was a nuanced and complex war. A conflict which had started through diplomatic efforts, but quickly turned. This war is fascinating because it includes many elements of modern war. Big countries fighting over authority, place, while also promising a lot on the conditions that one of the countries win.
5th graders studied about the war as well as the betrayal Native Americans experienced during The Treaty of Paris, 1763. In a class discussion, students were asked to engage in dialogue and offer their perspective on the following question:
Question: Was it fair and just, for the British Parliament to impose taxes on colonies to pay war debts after the French and Indian War? Why or Why Not?
Here are their thoughts…
“Yes, it is fair because Britain paid for the colonists to get to the colonies.”
“I think it is fair to tax the colonists because Britain helped the colonists in the seven years war, but Britain should only tax a reasonable amount.”
“I think that it is okay to tax the colonists because Britain helped them win the war and the money could also go to getting more weapons if there is another war or fight.”
“No it’s not fair because they were working as a team to win, so why would your teammates need to pay you.”
“I think it is fair because they helped them with a war which is a big deal, so I think they should get paid but maybe not soooooo much money.”
“I think it is fair for Britain to tax the colonists because Britain paid a lot of money to win a war for them, but they should consult the colonists.”
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