Final answer:
The 16th Amendment introduced a federal income tax which provided a steady source of revenue for the government to fund its operations and programs. This tax was important for funding major events like the Civil War and World War I.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 16th Amendment was important because it introduced a legalized federal income tax in the United States. Prior to this amendment, the federal government relied on tariffs as its primary source of revenue. However, with lower tariffs in place, the government needed to find a new way to replace the revenue.
The income tax provided a steady source of income for the government, allowing it to fund various operations and programs. This tax was imposed on the money that individuals made through jobs or trades, and it became a significant source of revenue for the government.
The income tax was especially important for funding major events like the Civil War and World War I, where the government needed substantial financial resources. By implementing the income tax, the government was able to collect revenue from a wider range of sources and ensure a more stable funding for its activities.