Who is considered the forerunner of today's modern sheriff with the role of collecting taxes for the king?

The forerunner of today's modern sheriff, especially in the context of collecting taxes for the king, is the Shire Reeve. The term "Shire Reeve" originates from Old English, with "shire" referring to a division of land similar to a county, and "reeve" signifying an official or representative. Historically, the Shire Reeve was the king's representative in a particular area, tasked with various duties including maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and overseeing the local administration.

This role evolved over time, leading to the modern position of sheriff in many jurisdictions. The responsibilities of the Shire Reeve laid the groundwork for contemporary law enforcement functions, showcasing how early systems of governance and tax collection influenced the formation of present-day political and legal structures.