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

This is a chromolithograph of General James Longstreet, printed by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as part of a series of collectable cards included with Duke brand cigarettes. The delicate coloring and soft focus create an idealized image of a Confederate General. The composition is neatly divided, with the title banner at the top, the portrait in the center, and Longstreet's name elegantly lettered at the bottom. Notice how the symmetry and pastel hues give the image a veneer of respectability. The artist uses formal elements to subtly legitimize the figure of Longstreet. The very act of distributing such cards naturalizes a divisive historical narrative. Consider how the formal design choices—the romanticized portrayal, orderly structure, and soft color palette—might serve to normalize controversial historical figures, turning them into palatable icons for mass consumption. In this context, the image functions not merely as a portrait, but as a cultural artifact laden with complex semiotic meaning.