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The Postal Act of February 20, 1792 defined the character of the young Post Office
Department. Spirited Congressional debate sought to separate old postal practices
from the future purpose and direction of the postal service. Discussions examined
issues of a free press, personal privacy and national growth.
Under the act, newspapers would be allowed in the mails at low rates to promote the
spread of information across the states. To ensure the sanctity and privacy of the
mails, postal officials were forbidden to open any letters in their charge unless
they were undeliverable. Finally, Congress assumed responsibility for the creation of
postal routes, ensuring that mail routes would help lead expansion and development
instead of only serve existing communities.
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