Alabama, from the Industries of States series (N117) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1889

This small chromolithograph, Alabama, was made around 1900 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as part of a series of promotional trading cards for Honest Long Cut Tobacco. The image depicts a woman in classical garb, allegorically representing the state. She leans on a shield bearing an eagle, with 'Alabama' emblazoned beneath, and the words, 'Cotton, Iron, Coal and Their Manufactures’ at the bottom. These cards served a dual purpose: advertising tobacco while also educating consumers about the industries of various states. During this era, American businesses frequently used allegorical figures and patriotic symbols to associate their products with national pride and progress. The image of a classically draped woman evokes the tradition of representing states as female figures, harking back to ancient Roman personifications of provinces. Yet, the industries celebrated here were built on the exploitation of enslaved and then, underpaid labor. Understanding this artwork requires us to research both advertising history and the social history of the period. By examining these cards in their historical context, we can better understand the complex relationship between commerce, patriotism, and social values at the turn of the 20th century.