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 was often expensive and unpredictable. The reform, led by Rowland Hill in 1840, introduced a uniform rate of one penny for any letter under half an ounce, regardless of distance. This made sending letters affordable for ordinary people. Interestingly, the first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black, was also issued that year. It featured a portrait of Queen Victoria and was printed in black, hence its name. The stamp was so successful that it led to a massive increase in mail volume, and soon other countries adopted similar systems.
❓ Какова была основная проблема почтовой службы до реформы 1840 года?
A. A. Письма часто терялись при пересылке.
B. B. Стоимость почтовых расходов оплачивалась получателем и варьировалась в зависимости от расстояния.
C. C. Не было доступных марок.
D. D. Только богатые люди могли позволить себе отправлять письма.
✅ 正确答案
B. The cost of postage was paid by the recipient and varied by distance.