Colportage refers to the commercial activity of selling or distributing books, pamphlets, religious literature, or other printed materials by traveling from place to place. It involves traveling salesmen, known as colporteurs, who visit homes, establishments, or public spaces to sell or offer these materials to potential customers.
The term "colportage" often specifically pertains to the distribution of religious or moralistic literature, typically associated with religious organizations or missionary work. Colporteurs may carry a variety of religious works such as Bibles, religious tracts, sermons, or informative pamphlets on religious teachings.
Historically, colportage was a common practice during the 19th and early 20th centuries, when literacy rates were rising and printed materials were becoming more accessible. The colporteurs, who were often itinerant salesmen or missionaries, acted as intermediaries between authors, publishers, and readers.
Colportage played a significant role in disseminating ideas, religious doctrines, and moral teachings. It provided access to knowledge, literature, and religious texts to isolated or underserved communities, especially those who may not have had easy access to bookstores or libraries.
In contemporary times, colportage has transformed due to advances in technology and changing reading habits. However, the term may still be used to describe the practice of door-to-door sales or distribution of printed materials, particularly those related to religious or moralistic themes.
