T206 Wagner & Plank....anti-tobacco dudes....printed together on a sheet

[teetwoohsix]

Originally Posted by Jcfowler6

Is it possible the Planks or Wagners were withheld to get people to buy more tobacco products chasing them?

I've wondered about this as well.

I've also wondered if the stories about Wagner being anti-tobacco are slightly inflated, or have become so over the years. Like maybe there's some truth to it, but over the years it picked up steam and grew to be thought of as fact as to why there are so little of his cards, when it may not be the reason at all. I only say this because-he did use tobacco, and his likeness was even used on tobacco packaging.

Another thing is- I can see the reasoning behind not wanting to promote smoking to children, but- I remember watching a silent movie once and they had a young kid (who appeared to be maybe 8 or 9 years old) smoking a cigarette around adults, like it was normal! It was bizarre, but maybe common in those times? I don't know.

Another thing is- I feel that just because someone doesn't use something doesn't necessarily mean they are "anti" that particular thing. Using myself as an example, I don't drink alcohol, and haven't for years- but, I am not "anti-alcohol". I am not against other people choosing to use it. Maybe a lame example and I can come up with others but hopefully I'm making a point

Great discussion, and interesting theories.

Sincerely, Clayton