"Taxation without representation" refers to the situation where a government imposes taxes on its citizens without their consent or input through elected representatives. This concept became a significant grievance for the American colonists in the 18th century, as they were taxed by the British Parliament, where they had no representatives. The phrase is often associated with the American Revolution, as it highlighted the colonists' demand for a voice in their governance. The lack of representation in decisions about taxation fueled the desire for independence and ultimately led to the creation of a new government that prioritized the principle of representation for its citizens.