Why should text files end with a newline?

Question

I assume everyone here is familiar with the adage that all text files should end with a newline. I\'ve known of this \"rule\" for years but I\'ve always wondered — why?

Answer 1

IMHO, it's a matter of personal style and opinion.

In olden days, I didn't put that newline. A character saved means more speed through that 14.4K modem.

Later, I put that newline so that it's easier to select the final line using shift+downarrow.