Kings Customs: An Account of Maritime Revenue and Conraband Traffic

This is Volume II of the King's Customs and gives an account of Maritime revenue, contraband traffic, the introduction of free trade, and the abolition of the navigation and Corn Laws from 1801 to 1855.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 1004 pages
Publication date: 18 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1968, this is Volume II of the King's Customs and provides an account of maritime revenue, contraband traffic, the introduction of free trade, and the abolition of the navigation and Corn Laws from 1801 to 1855.

The book delves into the intricate details of the British maritime industry during the early 19th century, encompassing a wide range of topics such as customs regulations, tax policies, and trade agreements. It sheds light on the complex web of laws and regulations that governed the shipping industry, and how they impacted the economic and political landscape of the time.

One of the key themes of the book is the impact of the introduction of free trade on the British economy. Prior to 1801, Britain had a system of protective tariffs and regulations that aimed to safeguard domestic industries and protect workers from foreign competition. However, with the advent of free trade, Britain opened its borders to foreign trade, allowing goods and services to flow freely between countries.

This led to a significant increase in trade and commerce, and the growth of new industries and markets. However, it also brought about challenges and disruptions, as domestic industries struggled to compete with cheaper foreign imports. The book explores these challenges and the responses of various stakeholders, including politicians, businessmen, and workers, as they grappled with the implications of free trade.

Another important aspect of the book is the abolition of the navigation and Corn Laws. These laws had been in place for centuries and had restricted the import of certain goods, such as corn and wheat, from other countries. The abolition of these laws was a significant step towards promoting free trade and reducing trade barriers.

However, it also led to concerns about the impact on domestic agriculture and food security. The book examines these concerns and the responses of policymakers and farmers, as they sought to balance the benefits of free trade with the needs of the local economy.

Overall, this book provides a valuable insight into the history and development of the British maritime industry during the early 19th century. It sheds light on the complex interplay between politics, economics, and society, and how these factors shaped the course of British history. Whether you are interested in trade, economics, or history, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the British Empire in the 19th century.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780415760379