Question

Why was the issue of searching a person's property so important in the time before the American Revolution?

Answer 1

First option: There was much theft occurring before the Revolution and unjustified search was the only way to reclaim goods.

The settlers in the "New World" responded to the strict mercantilist policies of the British Crown by smuggling and taking part in illicit trade. The British would attempt to impose revenue laws, but it was unsuccessful until British authorities made use of writs of assistance (general warrants; allowed the bearer to seize any prohibited goods, and etc).