Stump the German

[Eva Elisabeth]

Sorry for delay - kudos Mick, a beard tax was levied by Tsar Peter I of Russia on 5th September, 1698, in one of the most unusual pieces of taxation ever.

In 1698, Tsar Peter’s Grand Tour of Europe had exposed to him the customs, cultures and societies of western Europe, and he became convinced that technologically, culturally and politically Russia had fallen behind, encumbered by its predominantly agrarian economy and lifestyle. Upon returning from his Grand Tour of Western Europe, Peter was greeted by a reception of the country’s nobles. Accounts claim that after embracing each one, Peter took out a pair of scissors and began to cut the beard off of the commander in chief of the Russian army. In stunned silence the gathered crowds watched as Peter moved on to the next dignitary, shaving each one personally. On the very day, September 5th, he also issued a tax on facial hair meaning that anyone who wished to keep a beard had to pay the government. Once their money had been deposited the bearded individual received a small, copper token as proof the tax had been paid. An impoverished beggar could pay for his beard with just two kopeks, whereas the wealthiest members of society had to pay over a hundred roubles. The police were given powers to shave on sight those who didn’t pay or comply.
       

Mick, you win this Grand Pas des Deux from Petipa's "Bluebeard", performed by the prestigious Petersburg State Ballet:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_V8z_sOBRS0