GABELLE Meaning and
Definition
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Gabelle is a noun that has historical significance in the context of taxation. It refers to a specific tax on salt that was prevalent in certain European countries, particularly in France during the medieval and early modern periods. The term originates from the Late Latin word "gabulum," meaning "fork or pitchfork," which symbolized authority.
The gabelle was a highly controversial tax levied on the purchase and consumption of salt. It was originally imposed as a means of generating revenue for the state, but it eventually became a significant source of oppression and social unrest. The gabelle had different forms and rates, but it was generally a heavy burden on the common people, as salt was a necessary staple and its price was artificially inflated due to the tax.
The enforcement of the gabelle, which included strict regulations and checkpoints, contributed to widespread smuggling and evasion tactics by the population. This tax played a role in exacerbating economic inequality and social discontent. The gabelle was eventually abolished in France during the French Revolution in 1790.
In contemporary usage, the term "gabelle" may also be employed metaphorically to describe any oppressive or burdensome taxation or government regulation.
Common Misspellings for GABELLE
- vabelle
- babelle
- habelle
- yabelle
- tabelle
- gzbelle
- gsbelle
- gwbelle
- gqbelle
- gavelle
- gahelle
- gagelle
- gabwlle
- gabslle
- gabdlle
- gabrlle
- gab4lle
- gab3lle
- gabekle
- gabeple
Etymology of GABELLE
The word "gabelle" comes from the Old Provençal word "gabella" which means "tribute" or "tax". This term was derived from the Arabic word "qabala" or "qabalah", meaning "tax" or "tribute" as well. The concept of the Gabelle specifically refers to a salt tax imposed in France during the Ancien Régime.
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