I was just checking my emails and a false reporting of the history of Taps was sent to me. I found the true history of it and I thought I might share with anyone who's interested.
This is the accounting that is approved by West Point.
You know, I didn't know the correct answer to your question before I read about it on the "tapsbugler" web site. They say it originated as the "tapping" of the drummer before fires and lights were to be extinguished at night in military camps, forts,etc. This practice could be as old as 17th century. The tune, played on a bugle or trumpet is American, but not the term "taps" or, tap-toe, played on the drum.
