What was the primary purpose of the Sugar Act of 1764?

The primary purpose of the Sugar Act of 1764 was to raise revenue for the crown and limit smuggling. This act aimed to regulate trade by lowering the tax on molasses, making it more appealing for colonists to purchase it legally rather than through smuggling operations. It also introduced stricter enforcement of trade regulations and aimed to curb the widespread smuggling of sugar and molasses, which had been undermining British economic control over the colonies.

The act was part of a broader strategy by the British government to gain control over colonial revenue systems, as it sought to address the financial strains resulting from the costs of the French and Indian War. By implementing these measures, the British intended not only to collect taxes but also to assert economic control over colonial trade practices. This revenue generation was essential for the British Empire, particularly as they were seeking to pay off war debts and fund the increased military presence in the colonies.