Property taxes have been around forever it seems, as least since the dawn of civilization since evidence has been found in China, Persia and Egypt. Today, this tax remains a large source of income for governments and states all over the world.
During the Middle Ages in England is where this system can be traced to. The Kings of England were tax collectors with heavy hands as the British landowners were targets for this type of collection since their ability to pay was obvious. These taxes were met with opposition back then as they are today and so it continues as an unpopular law of taxation. Property taxes are generally assessed by local and state governments as well as the county so the school districts, sewer and water services all have their hand in the bucket.
The revenue from property taxes, in some states, can be more than the sales and income taxes combined. Property taxes are generally collected from improvements to land, personal man made objects and structures and land. Property assessed value is decided on whether the property is commercial, industrial or residential. This amount is criticized because of the differences required from state to state.