It sounds like you are referring to the Stamp Act of 1765, which was enacted by the British Parliament to help pay off debts incurred during the French and Indian War (1754-1763). The Stamp Act required that many printed materials in the American colonies, such as newspapers, legal documents, licenses, and other paper products, carry an official tax stamp to show that the tax had been paid.
The Stamp Act was met with significant resistance and protest from the colonists, who argued that it violated their rights since they had no representation in Parliament. This discontent contributed to the growing tension between the colonies and Britain and eventually played a role in the American Revolution. The Stamp Act was repealed in 1766 due to the widespread opposition and economic protests from the colonies.