[A. Pole]

They wanted to build up American industry and they needed revenue.

Very good. But if they wanted to dismantle American industry and to suppress/tax wages they would not want tariffs - they would be for "free" trade instead.

Now, do you understand this part of the Constitution?

I think I do, but do not see what is your point.

[Toddsterpatriot]

But if they wanted to dismantle American industry and to suppress/tax wages they would not want tariffs - they would be for "free" trade instead.

Wages are higher than before NAFTA passed. We manufacture and export more than ever. So much for free trade doing what you claim.

I think I do, but do not see what is your point.

You said:
Federal income tax came much later, I seriously doubt that they even considered that! You are projecting present into the past.

As you saw from the Constitution, they considered direct taxes, but they had to be apportioned. So, taking that into account, what other good source for revenues did they have besides tariffs?