Cheap Postage

In "Cheap Postage," Joshua Leavitt explores the intricate interplay between socio-economic forces and the expansion of communication in 19th-century America. Through a series of essays and personal reflections, Leavitt examines how the reduction in postal rates not only democratized information but also influenced the burgeoning landscape of American literature and journalism. His engaging literary style blends astute analysis with a touch of narrative, providing readers a nuanced understanding of how shifting postal policies served as a catalyst for national discourse and connectivity. Joshua Leavitt was a prominent figure in the American postal reform movement and a noted abolitionist. His background as a printer and editor deeply informed his perspectives on communication and societal progress, as he recognized the power of affordable postage in enhancing democratic participation and spreading progressive ideas. Leavitt's own experiences with the challenges of communication during this transformative period lead him to advocate for policies that would ultimately alter America's socio-political fabric. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the confluence of communication, politics, and culture in American history. Leavitt's insights will resonate with scholars and general readers alike, making it a vital addition to the discourse on how access to information shapes societies.

Joshua Leavitt (1794-1873) was an American Congregationalist minister, journalist, and renowned social reformer of the nineteenth century. An ardent advocate for the abolition of slavery, Leavitt is also recognized for his efforts in promoting cheap postage, an endeavor that found its expression in his brief treatise, 'Cheap Postage' (1848), whereby he argued for the reduction of postal rates. This text underscored the significance of affordable communication in fostering educational exchange and maintaining social bonds across the expansive United States. His advocacy contributed to the Postal Reform Act of 1851, which substantially lowered postal fees and increased accessibility to mail services. Leavitt's literary style, predominantly utilitarian and persuasive, aimed at effecting social change, reflecting his broader commitments to antislavery causes and temperance. Holding a degree from Yale and Harvard, Leavitt's scholarly demeanor was matched by his practical involvements, including editing the 'Emancipator', a leading abolitionist newspaper, and helping to found the American Temperance Union. While 'Cheap Postage' stands as a singular reference in this context, it encapsulates Leavitt's enduring legacy as an intellectual force melding Christian morality with progressive social action.