A Short History of General John Sedgwick, from the Histories of Generals series of booklets (N78) for Duke brand cigarettes 1888

"A Short History of General John Sedgwick," part of a series by W. Duke, Sons & Co., was originally produced as a collectible insert for Duke brand cigarettes. These cards, popular from 1870 to 1920, offer a glimpse into the cultural values of the time. Portraying General Sedgwick in his Union uniform, the card reflects a post-Civil War desire to memorialize military figures, framing them as symbols of national unity and heroism. Yet, this narrative often obscured the complexities and deep-seated racial tensions of the era. The commercial nature of this portrait raises questions about how identity and history are commodified. Sedgwick, like other generals, was packaged and sold alongside cigarettes, turning his image into a consumer product. This act invites us to consider the role of popular culture in shaping our understanding of the past and how it intertwines with economic interests.