What goods were primarily taxed by the Townshend Act of 1767?

The Townshend Act of 1767 specifically targeted a range of imported goods that were deemed necessary for daily living and associated with British commerce. The taxes were levied on items such as tea, glass, paper, and lead. This was part of a broader strategy by the British government to exert financial control over the colonies and generate revenue to pay off war debts and fund colonial governance. The inclusion of these specific items reflects the colonial economy's reliance on British imports, as they were integral to both daily life and colonial industries.

Tea, in particular, became a symbol of resistance against British taxation, leading to significant events such as the Boston Tea Party. Glass and paper were essential for manufacturing and communication, while lead was important for various industries, including plumbing and ammunition. The Townshend Acts also aimed to establish a precedent for taxation without representation, further escalating tensions that would eventually contribute to the American Revolution.