Today's lecture is about the history of the postage stamp. The first adhesive stamp, the Penny Black, was issued in Britain in 1840. Its design featured a profile of Queen Victoria. Interestingly, the stamp was printed in black, which made cancellations difficult to see, so it was soon replaced by the Penny Red. The invention of stamps revolutionized mail delivery, as previously the recipient, not the sender, paid for postage. This change shifted the cost burden and made sending letters more convenient for the general public.
❓ Why was the Penny Black replaced by the Penny Red?
A. Because black stamps were too expensive to produce.
B. Because the black colour made it hard to see the postmark.
C. Because Queen Victoria preferred the colour red.
D. Because red stamps were more popular with the public.
✅ 正确答案
Because the black colour made it hard to see the postmark.