Subsequent English governments have continued in their efforts to tax certain goods, passing acts regulating the trade of wool, hats, and molasses.

The Molasses Act of 1733 in particular is egregious to the colonists, as a significant part of colonial trade relies on the product.

The taxes will severely damage the New England economy, and the taxes will rarely be paid as a result, resulting in a surge of smuggling, bribery, and intimidation of customs officials.