The postal power of Congress: A study in constitutional expansion

by Lindsay Rogers

"The Postal Power of Congress: A Study in Constitutional Expansion" by Lindsay Rogers is a dissertation and constitutional analysis written in the early 20th century. The work examines the legislative and judicial history surrounding the power granted to Congress to establish postoffices and postroads, exploring how this power has expanded over time. Rogers argues that this expansion raises significant constitutional questions and implications regarding federal authority. The opening of the work introduces the historical context of the postal power, referencing key figures and documents, such as "The Federalist", which had a limited view of the significance of this power. Rogers highlights the evolution of postal functions and the consequential legal debates surrounding the boundaries of Congress's authority. He notes the initial establishment of postal services in colonial America, Benjamin Franklin's contributions, and the critical role of Congress in responding to the communication needs of a growing nation. This foundational exploration sets the stage for a deeper analysis of the implications of postal power on federal control and individual rights throughout the book.