Is there such a word as oxymoronic?
That's what your sentence is. I also note you don't provide a reference.
Walt
No Walt, and by saying so you only display your complete and utter ignorance, not to mention idiocy, when it comes to matters of economics.
Tariffs are classified into two main categories - revenue and protectionist. In fact these categories are graphable on a bell shaped curve of the tariff rate set opposite of its revenue capacity. Revenue tariffs are designed for what their name suggests, collecting revenue, and are not used as a tool to impede free trade. They are generally moderate in their rates, not unlike a sales tax is when placed on a good, and only minimally impact trade in a negative way.
Protectionist tariffs on the other hand are designed intentionally to curtail trade. They are often extremely high in their rates, or at least enough to make the import good's price non-competitive. They impact free trade significantly as that is what they are designed to do.
The low rate confederate tariffs of May 1861 were revenue tariffs. The Morrill act by comparison was protectionist. The difference is reflected in the average rates. Morrill led to a rate ot 45% by 1863. The Confederate tariff was only 13.3%
I also note you don't provide a reference.
My reference is the May 1861 tariff act - the same one your article refers to.