Taxes and Rebels

[Verrucosus]

Does high taxation increase the risk of rebel armies appearing like it did in STW and MTW? (I am not talking about city riots, but rebel armies appearing in the same province and blocking trade.)

[Omanes Alexandrapolites]

This research topic which went into the ins and outs of brigands may interest you. According to some research in that thread, taxes may have an effect, but it was neither confirmed nor denied by other researchers.

My personal opinion somehow seems to dictate that taxes are relevant though. Rebels have seemed to appear more frequently when higher taxes are imposed than when not. It could be coincidence though, so it probably would be best to wait for confirmation from others before considering yourself sure.

[Verrucosus]

I also think that taxes are a factor, but I do not have anything but anecdotal evidence either. Meanwhile, I will check out that brigand research thread. Thank you for the link.

[RLucid]

I've an impression that road development stimulates brigands.
Forts suppress them even if only maintained by a cheap unit like Town Watch, or Peasants.

[Verrucosus]

That makes sense. More roads -> more trade -> more brigands.
I have been reluctant to use a lot of forts, but if they allow me to squeeze more taxes out of a province without increasing the risk of rebellion (outside the city itself), they will very quickly pay for themselves.

[RLucid]

They pay for themselves, as you can avoid having a standing anti-brigand force in peaceful area.