jul 14, 1798 - Signs “An Act to lay and collect a direct tax within the United States” taxing dwellings, land, and slaves. The was to be a temporary tax to raise funds for a war with France, which many believed to be coming. [Link to pdf of the text of the act.]. The administrative structure to create lists and assess property, empowering commissioners to do the work had been signed on 07/09/1798. [Link to pdf of the text of the act.] This tax generated widespread opposition. (Timeline)