The Rise and Fall of Cigarette Culture

This chapter examines the significant rise in cigarette consumption during and after World War I, showcasing how soldiers viewed cigarettes as a quick nicotine fix. It highlights the cultural shifts that allowed women to smoke openly and the marketing strategies that capitalized on glamour and independence, while also addressing the subsequent health warnings and decline in smoking prevalence from the 1960s. The narrative connects historical smoking trends to modern perceptions, emphasizing the technological advancements in cigarette design and the ironic safety myths surrounding filtered cigarettes.