Question

5. Define writs of assistance.(1 point) Responses Customs officials would be allowed to inspect a ship’s cargo without giving a reason. Customs officials would be allowed to inspect a ship’s cargo without giving a reason. Customs officials could arrest colonists for not paying a duty. Customs officials could arrest colonists for not paying a duty. Customs officials helped colonists smuggle in goods. Customs officials helped colonists smuggle in goods. Customs officials could arrest King George III.

Answer 1

Writs of assistance refer to legal documents that authorized customs officials to search any location—residences, warehouses, or ships—without having to provide a specific reason for the search. These writs were used primarily to enforce trade regulations and prevent smuggling during colonial times in America. It allowed customs officials to inspect a ship's cargo without having to give a reason for their search. It did not grant them the authority to arrest colonists for not paying a duty, help colonists smuggle goods, or arrest King George III.