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A small, adhesive piece of paper, often bearing a design, can indeed journey across continents and oceans, all while remaining affixed to its original position. This seemingly paradoxical feat is accomplished by a postage stamp. While the stamp itself doesn't move independently, it is attached to an envelope or package, which then undertakes the journey, effectively carrying the stamp along for the ride. Its "corner" refers to its usual placement on the top right corner of an item being mailed.
The concept of prepaid postage, revolutionized by the introduction of the Penny Black in 1840 in the United Kingdom, made stamps an indispensable part of global communication. Before stamps, the recipient usually paid for the mail, leading to inconsistencies and often refused deliveries. The stamp standardized the cost and simplified the process, allowing letters and parcels to traverse vast distances with ease. Each stamp represents a fee paid for a specific postal service, enabling its attached item to reach almost any destination in the world.
Beyond their practical function, postage stamps are miniature works of art and historical documents. They often depict national heroes, significant events, flora, fauna, and cultural achievements, offering a glimpse into a country's identity and history. Philately, the study and collection of stamps, is a popular hobby worldwide, with enthusiasts seeking rare issues, errors, and historically significant pieces. These tiny paper squares, though stationary on an envelope, are true global travelers, carrying messages and sometimes even history across the world.
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