Cigarette advertising in the 19th century was influenced by the Industrial Revolution, which made mass production possible and led to cigarettes becoming more affordable. Ads used illustrations, often depicting exotic or glamorous imagery, to suggest sophistication and luxury.
While initially targeted at the upper class, advertising began to reach a broader audience as production increased. Most early ads targeted men, associating smoking with masculinity, adventure, and status. Brands also began developing distinct identities, sometimes using royal or foreign imagery to enhance prestige.
Here below is a set of interesting posters that shows cigarette ads in the 19th century.
El Prínciple de Gales, Key West Cigars, 1871
Turkish cross-cut cigarettes, 1880
Allen & Ginter, Fans of the Period, 1885
American eagle, chew American eagle fine cut, smoke eagle cavendish, 1885
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