Bounty (reward)

I

Introduction

Bounty (reward), reward or premium granted by law as an inducement to the performance of a service regarded as beneficial to the public.

II

Commercial Bounties

Some bounties are designed to encourage the production or marketing of a particular commodity or foster the growth of new industry. They may be granted directly as subsidies or other payments or indirectly as reduced rates for transportation or exemptions from part or all of the ordinary taxes. The United States has frequently paid commercial bounties, for example, the bounty paid for the production of domestic sugar under an act of 1890. Prices of agricultural products have sometimes been maintained by subsidies paid for exportation and for reduced production of farm products. The federal government and the states have also made large grants of land and money to encourage such enterprises as the construction of railroads, irrigation projects, canals, and roads.

III

Military Bounties

Bounties have been widely used to encourage enlistment in the armed forces. In the U.S., this practice stems from colonial days, when grants of land and money were made in return for military service. After the American Revolution, Congress continued the practice of granting military bounties, and by 1883 millions of hectares of land had been distributed in this way. During the 19th century in Europe and the U.S., bounties were paid to navy crews for the destruction of enemy warships. This practice was discontinued in the U.S. in 1899. With the adoption of military conscription, the payment of bounties for enlistment in wartime has almost disappeared.

IV

Wildlife Bounties

The destruction of undesirable animals is encouraged by the payment of bounties. This practice has declined in the U.S., although it is still found in some states.

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