Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher, from the Great Generals series (N15) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

This small chromolithograph of Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher was made for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes, probably sometime in the 1880s. The image is part of a series of ‘Great Generals’ trading cards that the company inserted in their cigarette packs. Here, Blücher, a Prussian field marshal who helped defeat Napoleon, is shown in his military regalia, complete with gold epaulettes and a red sash. In the background, a line of soldiers march into battle. What are we to make of this image of military might being used to sell cigarettes? Well, think about the time it was made, the late 19th century, when nationalism and militarism were on the rise in Europe and the United States. Allen & Ginter were tapping into this culture, using images of military heroes to promote their product. These cards weren't just about selling cigarettes, though; they were also about shaping public opinion and promoting a particular view of history. Studying the culture of cigarette cards can reveal a lot about the values and beliefs of the time.