Charles Townshend was a British politician and statesman in the 18th century, known for his role in the British Parliament. He served as Chancellor of the Exchequer and is best remembered for introducing the Townshend Acts in 1767, which imposed taxes on various goods imported to the American colonies. These acts contributed to rising tensions between Britain and the colonies, ultimately leading to the American Revolution. Townshend's policies aimed to raise revenue but were met with strong opposition from colonists, who protested against taxation without representation. His legacy is often associated with the events that shaped early American history.