Final answer:
The first long distance communication method was the telegraph, invented by Samuel Morse. Telegraphs used electrical impulses to send messages and Morse Code was created to translate signals into letters. This technology greatly increased the speed of communication, surpassing the speed of messengers on horseback.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first long distance communication method was the telegraph, which was invented in 1830 by Samuel Morse. Telegraphs allowed almost instant communication over large distances by sending electrical impulses over a wire. Morse also created Morse Code, a series of signals that could be translated into letters and used to send messages, revolutionizing mass communications. This technology greatly increased the speed by which information could be shared and disseminated, making it faster than sending messengers on horseback.