Billy Edwards, Pugilist, from World's Champions, Second Series (N43) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This color lithograph of Billy Edwards, Pugilist, was made by Allen & Ginter for their World's Champions, Second Series, a set of collectible cards included in cigarette packs. In the late 19th century, the rise of consumer culture saw a surge in advertising and promotional items. Tobacco companies were at the forefront, using visually appealing cards to boost sales and brand recognition. What is interesting here is the combination of sport, commerce and patriotism. The backdrop, with its grand architecture and array of national flags, suggests that Billy Edwards is not just a boxer but a symbol of national pride and strength. Boxing was becoming increasingly popular as a spectator sport, appealing to a wide audience. This card not only promotes a particular brand of cigarettes but also taps into the cultural fascination with athleticism and competition. To fully understand this image, we can look into marketing strategies of the time, the history of sport, and the construction of national identity.