Postage stamps and postal history of the United States

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/postage-stamps-and-postal-history-of-the-united-states

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the first u.s. postage stamps issued date?July 1, 1847
2. What is the mandatory stamp usage enacted?1855
3. Why did the U.S. start using stamps instead of stampless letters?Stamps created a prepaid, reliable system that helped the country communicate, do commerce, and feel united. They replaced informal mail that was paid by the recipient.
4. How did stamps become collectible items?In the late 1800s people saw that stamps had value, so the government began making special commemorative stamps for events and expositions.

Philately: The collection and study of postage stamps and postal history.
Commemorative Stamp: A stamp issued to mark a significant event, person, or anniversary, often featuring historical or cultural themes.
Non-denominated Stamp: A stamp that does not have a specific monetary value printed on it, such as the U.S. 'Forever' stamp.
Postal Value Indicator (PVI): A computer-generated label used by the postal service, often replacing traditional postage stamps for certain mailings.