Beard Tax
Location :
Russia (1698-1772)
Impact :
Encouraged Westernization and modern fashion, but was resented by traditionalists.
How it worked:
Imposed by Tsar Peter the Great to modernize Russian society by encouraging men to shave their beards. Those who wished to keep their beards had to pay a tax and carry a token as proof.
Summary:
The Beard Tax, imposed by Tsar Peter the Great of Russia in 1698, was part of his efforts to modernize Russian society and encourage Western fashion.
Men who wished to keep their beards had to pay a tax and carry a token as proof of payment. This tax was aimed at encouraging men to adopt the clean-shaven look popular in Western Europe.
While it successfully promoted Westernization and modern fashion, it was resented by traditionalists who viewed beards as a symbol of Russian identity and religious faith. The tax was repealed in 1772.
The Facial Hair Fee
TRIVIA QUESTIONS
When was the Facial Hair Fee introduced in Russia?
1698
Which monarch implemented the Facial Hair Fee in Russia?
Tsar Peter the Great
What was the primary reason for introducing the Facial Hair Fee?
To modernize Russian society and align it with Western European customs by discouraging the traditional Russian practice of wearing beards
Which items or activities were primarily targeted by the Facial Hair Fee?
The wearing of beards by men
How was the Facial Hair Fee collected?
As a tax that men had to pay to keep their beards, often evidenced by carrying a token indicating they had paid the fee
What was a common reaction of the public to the Facial Hair Fee?
Widespread opposition, particularly among the conservative and religious segments of society who viewed beards as a symbol of their faith and cultural identity
How did the Facial Hair Fee impact Russian society in the early 18th century?
It forced many men to shave their beards to avoid the tax, contributing to cultural shifts towards Western fashion and customs
Which social class was most affected by the Facial Hair Fee?
All social classes, but particularly merchants and peasants who had traditionally worn beards
What was one method used by people to avoid paying the Facial Hair Fee?
Shaving their beards to avoid the tax or secretly keeping their beards in remote areas where enforcement was lax
Who was responsible for enforcing the Facial Hair Fee?
Government officials and tax collectors
When was the Facial Hair Fee repealed?
1772, under the rule of Empress Catherine the Great
What broader historical context surrounded the introduction of the Facial Hair Fee?
Peter the Great's broader reforms aimed at Westernizing Russia and reducing the influence of traditional and religious customs
