Postcards

A postcard is a rectangular piece of thick paper or cardstock intended for writing and mailing a short message without an envelope. Typically, one side features an image, while the reverse is divided for the address, a postage stamp, and the message. 

History and development

• 19th-century origins: The concept of the modern postcard first appeared in Austria-Hungary in 1869 as an official "correspondence card". This inexpensive and quick form of communication soon spread across Europe and to the United States.

• Early picture postcards: While the earliest postcards were text-only, the first illustrated cards appeared in France in 1870. The first commercially produced souvenir postcard in the U.S. was for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

• "Golden Age" (1900–1915): Demand for postcards exploded in the early 20th century, reaching billions sent annually worldwide. This era was marked by high-quality, often German-printed, cards and led to a collecting craze known as "postcarditis". A 1907 postal decree that allowed senders to write messages on the back alongside the address ushered in the popular "divided back" era.

• Later eras: After World War I and as printing technology changed, different styles emerged. The "white border" era (c. 1915–1930) saved ink during the war, while the "linen" era (c. 1930–1945) used a textured, inexpensive card stock to achieve bright colors. The modern "chrome" era, featuring glossy, full-color photographs, began in the late 1930s and became prevalent after World War II. 

Common uses

• Travel greetings: A classic use is sending a scenic or location-specific postcard to friends and family while on vacation.

• Special occasions: Postcards are sent to mark holidays, announce a new baby, or celebrate milestones like a wedding.

• Marketing and advertising: Businesses use postcards for promotions, announcements, and direct mail campaigns. The eye-catching visuals and concise format help grab attention.

• Collecting (Deltiology): The hobby of collecting postcards is known as deltiology. Collectors often focus on specific themes, such as city views, historical events, or artists.

• Souvenirs and decor: Many people keep postcards as mementos of a place they've visited or use them as decorative items for display. 

Postcards today

Although digital communication like email and social media has largely replaced their use for everyday correspondence, postcards still hold value. 

• Personal touch: Sending a physical card is a more thoughtful gesture than a quick text message.

• Authentic connection: For many, it offers an authentic way to connect with loved ones by stepping away from the virtual world.

• Postcrossing: The Postcrossing website helps connect people who enjoy sending and receiving postcards from random members across the globe.

• Art and design: Many designers and illustrators create unique postcards for personal or commercial use. Some brands also incorporate postcard-inspired designs into their advertising.