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

This small booklet showing a portrait of General James Ewell Brown Stuart was produced in the United States around the turn of the century by the W. Duke, Sons & Co. as part of a series of promotional items for Duke cigarettes. These booklets, small and cheaply produced, were distributed widely to promote the brand and encourage customer loyalty. The portrait presents Stuart, a Confederate general during the Civil War, as a heroic figure. This kind of imagery was common in the decades following the war, particularly in the South, where Stuart was celebrated as a symbol of regional identity and a romanticized vision of the past. Examining these booklets offers insight into the ways in which historical narratives and cultural values were disseminated through popular media. Through careful research into the history of advertising and popular culture, we can better understand the complex ways in which historical figures are remembered and celebrated, and the social and political agendas that shape these representations.