Editing Soapbox (section)

{{Short description|Platform on which one stands to make an impromptu speech}}
{{Other uses}}
[[File:Snake-oil salesman Professor Thaddeus Schmidlap at Enchanted Springs Ranch, Boerne, Texas, USA 28650a.jpg|thumb|alt=An old-timey man with a long moustache is wearing a suit and tophat and standing on top of a soapbox. Behind him, there is a caravan with adverts describing his snake oil.|An actor portrays a [[snake oil salesman]] at a theme park]]

A '''soapbox''' is a raised platform on which one stands to make an impromptu speech, often about a [[Politics|political]] subject. The term originates from the days when speakers would elevate themselves by standing on a wooden [[crate]] originally used for shipment of [[soap]], or other dry goods, from a manufacturer to a retail store.

The term is also used [[metaphor]]ically to describe a person engaging in often flamboyant, impromptu, or unofficial [[public speaking]]. [[Hyde Park, London|Hyde Park]] in London is known for its Sunday soapbox orators, who have assembled at its [[Speakers' Corner]] since 1872 to discuss [[religion]], [[politics]], and other topics. In the context of the [[World Wide Web]], [[blogs]] can be used as soapboxes and are often used for promotional purposes.