Well, truth be told, most colonists weren't fleeing taxation. I'm sure it played some role, but certainly not a primary reason. And really, most taxes in the mid 18th century weren't even being enforced. It was the lack of representation that was the killer. If the king had added representation for the colonies to the houses of lords and commons, we would likely be flying the Union Jack now.

Ah, but Maph, you assume that the burden is pervasive. It is not. Those who pay the majority are a small minority, but those who are receiving are a large plurality. And when you include the bureaucracy, I dare say a majority.

I find it hilarious that we pay half of everything we earn to the government, and then wonder why there are so many poor...