We had the Telephone Tax issue that funded the Spanish American War over a hundred years ago.  We had one year where the 1040 was a one page line # and amount with supporting info.  We also only had passbook savings and regular dividends.  No crypto and clients having 5-10-20 1099's with every broker because stock trades cost money to do (I remember $39.95 do do one stock trade - EF Hutton - when money talks, we listen).  Now it's like sports betting.