Today we're going to discuss the history of the postal service. In the early 19th century, mail was delivered by horseback riders, which was slow and unreliable. Then, in 1840, Britain introduced the penny post, which standardized the cost of sending a letter regardless of distance. This made mail affordable for ordinary people. Later, in the late 19th century, the invention of the railway and steamships greatly sped up international delivery. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that airmail became common, especially after World War II. So, the key turning point for public access was the penny post, not the later technological advances.
❓ According to the lecture, what was the main significance of the penny post introduced in Britain in 1840?
A. A. It reduced the delivery time for international mail.
B. B. It made postal services affordable for the general public.
C. C. It was the first time mail was delivered by horseback.
D. D. It led to the invention of the railway and steamships.
✅ 正确答案
B. It made postal services affordable for the general public.