Pre-stamp postal practice (1700s): Identify who typically paid postage before adhesive stamps existed. Full question: In the 1700s, who would pay the postage fee for letters before the stamp was invented? Choose the correct option.

Historical practice

• Before the 1840s introduction of adhesive postage stamps (e.g., the Penny Black in Britain, 1840), many postal systems charged postage due on delivery—thus the recipient commonly paid.

Common pitfalls Assuming modern prepayment norms applied uniformly in the 1700s; systems varied by region, but recipient-paid postage was widespread.

Final Answer The recipient (postage due on delivery).