Pronunciation: [ʃˈɪp mˈʌnɪ] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "ship money" is /ʃɪp ˈmʌni/. In English, the "sh" sound is spelled with "sh" and the "ip" sound is spelled with "ip." The "m" sound is spelled with "m" and the "o" sound is spelled with "o." The "n" sound is spelled with "n" and the "ey" sound is spelled with "ey." The phonetic transcription /ʃɪp ˈmʌni/ accurately represents the sounds in the word "ship money."
Ship money refers to a form of taxation that was levied in England between the 16th and 17th centuries. It was a controversial and highly debated tax that played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the time.
The term "ship money" originated from the fact that the tax was initially intended to fund the maintenance and provision of ships and naval defenses. However, it gradually evolved into a general tax imposed on both coastal and inland regions. It was levied on individuals, households, and communities, based on their economic resources and ability to pay.
Ship money was first introduced on a voluntary basis during times of imminent military threat. However, it was transformed into a compulsory tax by King Charles I in 1634, leading to widespread resistance and opposition. The tax became highly unpopular due to its arbitrary nature, as it was not consistently enforced and often exceeded the legitimate costs of naval defense.
The implementation of ship money became a central point of contention between the monarchy and Parliament, highlighting the increasing tensions between Charles I and his subjects that eventually led to the English Civil War. The landmark case of John Hampden, who refused to pay the tax and challenged its legality in court, further intensified the opposition to ship money.
Ultimately, ship money's significance lies not only in its monetary purpose but also in its associated political and constitutional implications. It contributed to the polarization of English society and the erosion of the monarchy's authority, foreshadowing the larger conflicts and revolutions that would follow in subsequent centuries.
In Eng. hist, a tax imposed without authority of Parliament for the providing and supporting of ships for the king's service, revived in the reign of Charles 1., and became highly unpopular and odious,-now abolished.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "ship money" originates from Old English and Middle English.
The word "ship" in this context refers to a type of taxation that was initially levied for the purpose of financing naval defense or the construction of ships. In Old English, the term "scip" referred to a ship or a vessel, and it eventually evolved to include the idea of financial contributions towards naval activities.
The word "money" comes from Old English "moneie", which was derived from the Latin word "moneta" meaning "coin" or "mint". Over time, "money" came to represent general currency or a means of payment.
The specific combination of "ship" and "money" to refer to a specific type of tax or levy came about in the 17th century in England. It was a controversial form of taxation that was imposed by King Charles I without the approval of Parliament.
