Checks are the precursors to debit cards (aka check cards) - you can carry them around instead of cash. They just became so widespread that they're still in use

Checks are the precursors to debit cards (aka check cards) - you can carry them around instead of cash. They just became so widespread that they're still in use today - which is not surprising, seeing as half of the population got used to them since they were young. They're actually just as effective as a wire or a credit card, except the recipient has to go through more hoops to get the cash...