Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

What prompted the British to issue writs of assistance in the colonies?

1. To control colonial expansion

2. To combat widespread smuggling

3. To uphold British sovereignty

4. To enforce tax laws on colonial imports

The correct answer is: To combat widespread smuggling

The issuance of writs of assistance by the British in the colonies was primarily a response to the rampant issue of smuggling that undermined British economic interests. These general search warrants allowed customs officials to enter any premises to search for illegally imported goods without needing specific evidence or probable cause. The British government aimed to strengthen its control over colonial trade and ensure that merchants were complying with trade regulations. By combating widespread smuggling, the British hoped to protect their revenue from duties and taxes that were crucial to supporting their empire. This measure was part of broader efforts to impose greater regulatory control over colonial commerce and counteract the evasive practices that many colonial merchants employed.