Death and Taxes in Ancient Egypt Lecture by Brian Muhs, Associate Professor of Egyptology, Oriental Institute and Department of Near Eastern Civilizations and Languages, University of Chicago. Co-sponsored by Archaeological Institute of America In Ancient Egypt as today, the state tried to make taxes as unavoidable as death. It measured fields to calculate their harvest taxes, and conducted a census in order to exact compulsory labor in the form of military service or agricultural labor. When coinage gained currency, the state refused to register sales until their sales tax was paid, and ultimately used the census to introduce the dreaded poll tax. Those who nonetheless tried to evade their taxes risked corporal punishment and imprisonment. Our lectures are free and available to the public thanks to the generous support of our members. To become a member, please visit: bit.ly/2AWGgF7

Be the first to comment