Full Dress, Halberdier, Spain, 1886, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This is "Full Dress, Halberdier, Spain, 1886," a chromolithograph card printed by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company as a promotional item for Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. This image speaks to the politics of imagery in late 19th century consumer culture. Kinney Brothers Tobacco was one of many companies that issued collectible cards with their products; the cards covered a diverse range of subjects and were designed to appeal to a broad audience. By depicting a Spanish halberdier in full dress, the company connected their brand with notions of global adventure and military prowess. Spain, in 1886, was still dealing with the loss of its colonies and the decline of its global power, making this image a potentially nostalgic or aspirational symbol. The card not only served as advertising, but also provided a glimpse into the cultural values and interests of the time. Understanding the social context and commercial interests behind such images is essential. To do this, historians consult business records, period advertising, and cultural studies to uncover the layers of meaning embedded in what might seem like a simple piece of advertising.