Scutage Medieval Tax

About Scutage Medieval Tax

Scutage, or shield money, was a tax paid by knights in lieu of military service. Under the feudal system, knights owed the king 40 days of military service per year. Starting in the 12th century, kings allowed knights to pay scutage instead. Henry II used scutage extensively, transforming military obligation into a revenue source. The conversion of service into cash payment was one of the first steps toward a money based tax system. John imposed scutage at unprecedented rates, contributing to the baronial revolt that led to Magna Carta. The last scutage was imposed in 1327. The concept of converting obligation into payment influenced later tax systems, where various feudal dues were commuted into cash payments.