Benjamin Franklin established the US postal system in 1775.
Now let’s take a closer look
Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s most prominent founding fathers, established the US postal system in 1775. Based on my practical knowledge and expertise, I can confidently provide a detailed answer to this question.
Interestingly, Benjamin Franklin’s involvement in the postal system began even before the establishment of the United States. In 1753, he was appointed as the postmaster of Philadelphia by the British Crown. This role allowed Franklin to gain valuable insight into the workings of the postal service and its potential for improvement.
With his practical experience and knowledge, Franklin foresaw the need for a more efficient and reliable postal system that could serve the growing American colonies. He recognized that a well-functioning postal network was crucial for effective communication, the exchange of ideas, and the development of commerce.
Therefore, in 1774, Benjamin Franklin was appointed as a member of the Second Continental Congress’ Committee on Postal Affairs. This committee was charged with the task of developing and implementing a postal system that would effectively connect the thirteen colonies.
Due to Franklin’s vision and expertise, he took the lead in establishing the United States Postal Service the following year, in 1775. The system was initially known as the “United Colonies Post Office Department.” Franklin was appointed as the first Postmaster General under the Continental Congress.
To demonstrate the significance of Franklin’s contribution to the US postal system, let me quote a famous saying by him: “There are only two things certain in life: death and taxes.” Interestingly, Franklin recognized the importance of the postal system in relation to taxes. He understood that an efficient mail service would aid in the collection of taxes and facilitate the growth of the nation.
Now, to provide you with a list of interesting facts about the establishment of the US postal system:
- Benjamin Franklin was not only instrumental in establishing the postal system but also played a key role in implementing numerous improvements, such as standardized rates and delivery routes.
- The first official postage stamps were issued in the United States in 1847, following the successful introduction of adhesive stamps by the British postal system.
- In 1970, the United States Postal Service (USPS) was established as an independent agency, transforming the Post Office Department into a government corporation.
- The USPS is the third-largest employer in the United States, with over 600,000 employees.
- The USPS handles a massive volume of mail annually, delivering approximately 143 billion pieces of mail in 2019 alone.
To further enhance the clarity of the information provided, here is a table comparing the establishment of the US postal system with other significant events in history:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1775 | Benjamin Franklin establishes US postal system |
| 1776 | Declaration of Independence |
| 1861 | Civil War begins |
| 1920 | Women’s suffrage ratified |
| 1969 | First manned moon landing |
| 1970 | USPS established as an independent agency |
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin’s pivotal role in establishing the US postal system cannot be overstated. Through his expertise and practical knowledge, he created a foundation for effective communication and commerce within the growing American colonies. His contributions continue to shape the USPS, an institution that remains a critical part of the American society today.
There are other points of view available on the Internet
Benjamin FranklinOn , the U.S. postal system is established by the Second Continental Congress, with Benjamin Franklin as its first postmaster general.
On July 26, 1775, the U.S. postal system is established by the Second Continental Congress, with Benjamin Franklin as its first postmaster general.
The American postal system, under the leadership of Benjamin Franklin, was created on this date, July 26, 1775.
On this day in 1775, the U.S. postal system is established by the Second Continental Congress, with Benjamin Franklin as its first postmaster general.
A Continental Congress was organized at Philadelphia in May 1775 to establish an independent government. One of the first questions before the delegates was how to convey and deliver the mail. Benjamin Franklin, newly returned from England, was appointed chairman of a Committee of Investigation to establish a postal system.
On this day in 1775, the U.S. postal system is established by the Second Continental Congress, with Benjamin Franklin as its first postmaster general.
Overthrowing the London-oriented imperial postal service in 1774–1775, printers enlisted merchants and the new political leadership, and created a new postal system. The United States Post Office (USPO) was created on July 26, 1775, by decree of the Second Continental Congress. Benjamin Franklin headed it briefly.
Back on American soil in 1775, Franklin was part of the Second Continental Congress and served on many committees, including one to establish an independent postal system. On July 26, 1775, the Congress appointed Benjamin Franklin the first Postmaster General of the organization now known as the United States Postal Service.
The United States Post Office (USPO) was ordered by the Second Continental Congress on July 26, 1775. Benjamin Franklin oversaw its creation as head of the department for a short while.
This video contains the answer to your query
On July 26, 1775, the United States Continental Congress established the United States Post Office in Philadelphia, appointing Benjamin Franklin as the first Postmaster General. This decision was crucial for the future of the thirteen colonies, recognizing the need for an official postal service. The Congress also set the salaries for essential positions within the post office department, laying the groundwork for the official post office department we have today, created in 1792.
In addition, people ask
Who created the US postal system?
Response will be: Benjamin Franklin
In the nearly 250 years since Benjamin Franklin was appointed our first Postmaster General in 1775, the Postal Service has grown and changed with America, boldly embracing new technologies to better serve a growing population.
Also Know, Who was in charge of the post office in 1775?
Benjamin Franklin
In an act of independence from the British government, the Second Continental Congress organized a new postal service in July 1775. Benjamin Franklin was appointed as postmaster general.
In this regard, Did Benjamin Franklin start the post office? Response will be: Making sure that the mail was delivered as quickly and dependably as possible was critical to the colonies’ survival. That’s why three months after the battles of Lexington and Concord, the Continental Congress turned to Benjamin Franklin to establish a national post service as the first Postmaster General.
Who created the revolutionary postal delivery system? The answer is: Californians felt their isolation from lack of regular mail so a better idea was needed. In 1860, the Pony Express was the brainchild of William H. Russell who had failed repeatedly in getting postal backing to carry mail.
When was the Postal Service established? In 1873 the postal service was proclaimed a monopoly and private courier systems were prohibited, a uniform postal tariff scale was adopted, and postage stamps and postcards were introduced. The first official overseas mail service was established in 1875 with the United States.
Keeping this in view, How did the colonists establish their own post offices? Response to this: The colonists began to set up their own independent post offices. A former postmaster from Providence, R.I., William Goddard, set up the Constitutional Post, an alternative service that allowed colonists to send letters to one another without the risk that the Crown’s postmasters would open and read them.
Just so, What did the Post Office Department do in 1792?
Answer: The Post Office Department was created in 1792 with the passage of the Postal Service Act. The appointment of local postmasters was a major venue for delivering patronage jobs to the party that controlled the White House. Newspaper editors often were named.
Then, When did the post office become an executive department? As a response to this: His predecessor, John McLean of Ohio, began referring to the Post Office, or General Post Office as it was sometimes called, as the Post Office Department, but it was not specifically established as an executive department by Congress until June 8, 1872.
In respect to this, Who created the US Post Office? The reply will be: The United States Post Office (USPO) was ordered by the Second Continental Congress on July 26, 1775. Benjamin Franklin oversaw its creation as head of the department for a short while. In 1789, George Washington appointed Massachusetts resident Samuel Osgood as first American Postmaster General.
How did the colonists establish their own post offices?
The colonists began to set up their own independent post offices. A former postmaster from Providence, R.I., William Goddard, set up the Constitutional Post, an alternative service that allowed colonists to send letters to one another without the risk that the Crown’s postmasters would open and read them.
Herein, What did the post office do in 1792?
Answer: The Act of February 20, 1792, made detailed provisions for the Post Office. Subsequent legislation enlarged the duties of the Post Office, strengthened and unified its organization, and provided rules and regulations for its development. Philadelphia was the seat of government and postal headquarters until 1800.
Additionally, What did the new state postal service do?
The response is: The new state postal service was given a monopoly for the collection, conveyance, and delivery of letters, printed papers, and newspapers, and a uniform tariff was established. The monopoly was surrendered for printed papers and newspapers in 1873 but was extended to cover parcels up to 20 kilograms in 1923.