Fact Check: Historian Andrew Wender Cohen on Medieval Duties on Pre-Owned Wares
What We Know
The claim states that historian Andrew Wender Cohen asserted that the concept of duties on pre-owned wares dates back to at least medieval-era trade. Cohen is a recognized historian who specializes in the study of crime and smuggling, particularly in American history. His works include Contraband: Smuggling and the Birth of the American Century and The Racketeer’s Progress: Chicago and the Struggle for the Modern American Economy (Cohen, 2015; source-1).
Cohen's research indicates that smuggling and duties have evolved significantly over time, particularly in relation to economic priorities and government regulations. He discusses how tariffs were a primary source of revenue for the U.S. government in the 18th century and how attitudes toward smuggling reflected broader societal values (Cohen, 2015; source-3). However, there is no direct evidence or citation in the available sources that explicitly connects Cohen's work to the assertion about medieval-era duties on pre-owned wares.
Analysis
The claim relies heavily on the interpretation of Cohen's work and the historical context he provides regarding tariffs and smuggling. While Cohen does explore the historical significance of tariffs and duties, particularly in the context of American history, the sources do not substantiate the specific assertion that he has made a statement about duties on pre-owned wares dating back to medieval times.
Cohen's focus appears to be more on the evolution of smuggling practices and the political and economic implications of tariffs in the 18th and 19th centuries rather than a detailed examination of medieval trade practices. The sources available primarily discuss his recent works and contributions to understanding American economic history, but they do not provide a comprehensive overview of his views on medieval trade or duties on pre-owned goods (Cohen, 2015; source-4).
Given that the claim lacks direct evidence from Cohen's writings or statements, it raises questions about its accuracy. The absence of specific references to medieval duties in the context of Cohen's research suggests that the claim may be an extrapolation rather than a direct quotation or assertion from him.
Conclusion
Needs Research: The claim that Andrew Wender Cohen stated that the concept of duties on pre-owned wares dates back to at least medieval-era trade is not substantiated by the available sources. While Cohen's work does address the historical context of tariffs and smuggling, there is no direct evidence linking him to the specific assertion about medieval trade practices. Further investigation into Cohen's writings and historical records would be necessary to clarify this claim.
