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Postal rates Books
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A. D. (Alfred Daniel) Smith
The Development of Rates of Postage: An Historical and Analytical Study
"The Development of Rates of Postage: An Historical and Analytical Study" by A. D. Smith is a scholarly historical account written in the early 20th century. The work examines the evolution of postal rates, exploring their underlying economic principles and how they have been influenced by various societal changes. It aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of how rates have been determined over time in the context of the postal system's development. The opening of the book presents the author's intent to analyze the history and principles governing postage rates. A.D. Smith outlines the permissions and resources granted to him, such as access to official records at the General Post Office, which facilitate a thorough exploration of both inland and international postage rates. The author reflects on early postal systems that emerged within England and other nations, emphasizing significant developments like the introduction of penny postage. This section lays a solid foundation for the reader's understanding of how historical context and economic considerations have shaped the postage system as we know it today.
Joshua Leavitt
Cheap Postage
"Cheap Postage" by Joshua Leavitt is a political pamphlet written in the mid-19th century. The work discusses postal reform in Great Britain and the United States, advocating specifically for the implementation of a low, uniform postage system to alleviate the financial burdens of communication on the populace. It highlights the experiences and consequences of cheaper postal rates in Britain as a model for reform, arguing that similar changes could vastly benefit American society. At the start of the pamphlet, Leavitt discusses the history and significance of postal reform, spotlighting the successes experienced in Great Britain since the introduction of cheap postage. He references various letters and reports praising the increased correspondence and economic advantages of the new system, as well as expressing the urgency of adopting similar reforms within the United States to enhance communication and social effectiveness. Leavitt emphasizes the failures of the American postal system, particularly the need for systemic change to suppress private mail and illegal letter-carrying services that have emerged due to high postage rates.
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