While letters used to be the main form of connection between people in different places, the internet has given us the luxury of instant digital communication, allowing us to be in contact with others whenever we want. However, while letters were the main form of correspondence before the introduction of the internet, they still play a crucial role in modern society. Here are a few examples of some important handwritten notes that highlight the significance of letters.

THE DISCOVERIES OF CHARLES DARWIN

While Charles Darwin, the discoverer of natural selection, sent roughly 15,000 letters about his different findings and beliefs, one of the most important letters he wrote was to his friend Joseph Dalton Hooker. Written in early 1844, this letter contained Darwin’s theory that animals change and adapt over time. The ideas written in this letter would later become the theory of evolution that was published in his momentous book “On the Origin of Species.”

Letters played a large role in Darwin’s discoveries, as he was constantly in contact with other theorists and naturalists. Through exchanging letters with others, Darwin was able to further flesh out his theories, while also gaining support from other important theorists. This continual development and refinement of his ideas through letters ultimately led to the discovery of evolution, one of the most important theories of all time.

FROM PRESIDENT TO PRESIDENT

When one president leaves office and another takes their place, it is tradition for the administration transferring out to leave a letter behind. An example of such a letter was the one left by George W. Bush when Barack Obama was taking office in 2009. In this letter, Bush congratulated Obama on winning the election, explained how he wished him the best, and told him that there was an entire country rooting for him.

While letters from president to president are a nice gesture, they also show a willingness to set aside differences in pursuit of a common goal. In this letter, Bush is not writing as a Republican to a Democrat, but as one person who wants to see the country thrive to another.

LETTER FROM BIRMINGHAM JAIL

After being incarcerated in Birmingham Jail for peacefully protesting segregation, Martin Luther King Jr. wrote “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” which called for the ending of unjust laws and challenged a statement made by white clergymen who disagreed with King’s protesting. This open letter was a monumental work for the Civil Rights Movement and was written only four months before King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

While he was in prison, writing this letter allowed King to express all of his frustrations, ideas, and opinions, further bringing attention to the injustice that was plaguing America. This letter had an incredibly significant impact and managed to touch both the minds and hearts of a large number of Americans.

IN CONCLUSION

While the internet has made it easier for people to communicate with one another, there is still a place for handwritten letters within our society. Letters are not only used for communication, as they are capable of conveying emotions and complex ideas. The personal element of a handwritten letter should not be understated, as it can express individuality, while also bringing people together.

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