A Short History: General Ulysses S. Grant, from the Histories of Generals series (N114) issued by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Smoking and Chewing Tobacco 1888

This promotional card of General Ulysses S. Grant was printed by W. Duke, Sons & Co., to promote Honest Long Cut Smoking and Chewing Tobacco at the end of the 19th century. Cards like these were included in cigarette packs and chewing tobacco as collector’s items, and they served as advertisements. This image shows the extent to which the American Civil War was central to the national identity. Grant is celebrated here as a heroic figure, and he's flanked by images referencing this conflict. While appearing patriotic, this card also served the interests of the tobacco industry. It used popular enthusiasm for American history to promote its products. It's important for us to remember the social context of this card, and we can do so through research into the history of tobacco advertising and popular enthusiasm for the Civil War at the time. Only then can we fully understand its meaning and impact.