Which statement best explains why taxation without representation was a major issue for the colonists?

the colonists wanted more influence over how taxes were spent.
the colonists equated a lack of representation with a lack of consent to be ruled.
the colonists sought more control of tax collection to keep the money in the colonies.
the colonists felt that the collection of taxes violated their natural rights.

The correct answer is:

The colonists equated a lack of representation with a lack of consent to be ruled.

Explanation:

Taxation without representation was one of the major causes of the American Revolution. Colonists believed that taxation was an abuse of power from Britain because the American colonies had no representation in the British Parliament, and that the British Parliament would only protect British interests inside Britain. Colonists equated taxation without representation as a lack of consent to be ruled because there was no agreement between the government and the governed, therefor, it was a violation of the social contract and was an unconstitutional act.

The first attempt to impose taxes on the colonies was the Stamp Act of 1765, which colonists repealed. The Townshend Acts of 1767 followed it, and was partially repealed by colonists, the last attempt was the Tea Act of 1773, which resulted in the Boston Tea Party protest.