Private, City Troop, Philadelphia, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This is "Private, City Troop, Philadelphia," a chromolithograph trading card created by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company around the late 19th century, to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. These cards capture a moment in American history ripe with social and economic transformation. The image depicts a soldier in uniform, sword in hand, representing the military. But let's think about who is represented here, and who is not. How does it reflect societal hierarchies and the era’s notions of patriotism and service? The symmetry and orderliness of the soldier's uniform and pose can be contrasted with the realities of military service. Trading cards like this offer a glimpse into how commercial culture shapes our understanding and memories of national identity. Consider how such images helped construct and reinforce ideas about citizenship and belonging during a time of significant social change.