The country had taxes that funded government BEFORE the IRS existed.
Yes, but neither did the government provide the goods and services we enjoy today: Infrastructure, education, Social Security, minimum wage laws, food and water inspection, public courts, wage and hour regulations, building codes, disaster assistance, &c.
Government didn't see itself as a public service organization, in service to the people. It was a cabal protecting the power and privileges of its class.
If you wanted a road, a fire department or to educate your kids you had to pay for it yourself, out-of-pocket.
Also, the issue isnt taxes, its over taxation.
What constitutes "over?" Government provides services wholesale; services you couldn't afford retail, or arrange privately.
How do you conceive of government? What is it you object to?
Me, I object its role in promoting the interests of the exploiting classes over those of the people; the bankers, industrialists, &c -- the "Economic Royalists" who have largely co-opted the political system.
I object to the propaganda, surveillance and promotion of divisiveness that keep the people in their place and mask government's exploitation.
But I
support government as organizer of the Social Contract; as a social service co-op that promotes the common welfare and security.
I get the impression that many of the libertarian and right-wing, anti-government, anti-tax types, would throw the baby out with the bath water.