雅思听力

🎧 Listening Transcript

Today we're going to discuss the history of the postal service. In the 19th century, the introduction of the penny post in Britain revolutionized communication. Before that, postage was paid by the recipient, which often led to refusal. The reformer Rowland Hill proposed that the sender should pay, and that a uniform rate should apply regardless of distance. This simple change dramatically increased mail volume. However, one challenge was the need for prepaid envelopes or stamps, which initially faced public skepticism. Over time, stamps became popular, and by 1854, adhesive postage stamps were widely used, making the system more efficient and accessible.