12. The Soap Tax

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England is a better-smelling place today thanks to abolishment of the soap tax, which was was imposed on the British public for centuries. At one time soap was expensive, making it a tempting target for the insatiable appetite of tax authorities. Not to mention the fact that it was definitely considered an essential item by those who wished to retain friends and not attract flies. In 1835, Prime Minister Gladstone had the good sense to abolish the tax and make washing up less expensive for the average Englishman.