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Illiterate Workers Bill
Poster Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Illiterate Workers Bill
An exact copy of a bill for 10s. 10d. sent by a bricklayer who could not write, to a gentlman for whom he had worked. The symbol for settled is very dramatic! Date: late 19th century
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Media ID 4340320
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10180966
Bill Bills Bricklayer Communication Copy Dramatic Exact Figures Invoices Money Receipts Simplicity Symbol Symbology Symbols Worked Write Illiterate
EDITORS COMMENTS
This historical print captures a fascinating glimpse into the communication challenges faced by illiterate workers in the late 19th century. The image shows an exact copy of a bill for 10s. 10d. sent by a bricklayer who could not write, to a gentleman for whom he had worked. What makes this document truly remarkable is the dramatic symbol used to indicate that the bill has been settled.
In an era when writing was not a universal skill, trade transactions often relied on symbols and figures rather than words. This simplicity in invoicing highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness of individuals who found alternative ways to communicate and conduct business.
The use of symbology in bills, receipts, and invoices from this period offers valuable insights into the history of trade and commerce. It serves as a reminder of the diverse methods people have employed throughout time to overcome barriers to communication.
As we reflect on this unique piece of historical documentation, we are reminded of the importance of literacy and education in empowering individuals to navigate complex financial transactions with confidence. The Illiterate Workers Bill stands as a testament to human resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges posed by limited access to formal education.
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