Minni Dupree, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-7) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1880s

This promotional card for Duke Cigarettes, featuring actress Minni Dupree, was produced in the United States between 1870 and 1920. The image is a fascinating example of how commercial interests shaped the production and distribution of images during this period. The use of an actress to promote cigarettes speaks volumes about the social status of both the product and the performer. Cigarettes were becoming increasingly popular and were marketed towards a wide audience and actresses, like Minni Dupree, were becoming celebrities in their own right. By associating the two, Duke Cigarettes hoped to elevate their brand and appeal to consumers who aspired to be like their favorite stars. Consider how such images circulated: inserted in cigarette packs, they became collectibles, further incentivizing purchases. These cards, like the magazines and posters of the era, offer a glimpse into the cultural values and aspirations of the time. Further research into advertising history and the biographies of actresses like Minni Dupree would enrich our understanding of this image and its place in American culture.