Today we're going to discuss the history of the postal service. In the 19th century, the introduction of the postage stamp revolutionized communication. Before stamps, the recipient usually paid for the mail, which often led to refusal. The first adhesive stamp, the Penny Black, was issued in Britain in 1840. Interestingly, it featured a profile of Queen Victoria and was printed in black ink. However, because the black stamp was difficult to cancel clearly, it was soon replaced by the Penny Red in 1841. The change improved efficiency in sorting and delivery.