Britain's New World of Tobacco: Addiction, Profit, and Social Ritual
Britain's New World of Tobacco (2017)
I explore how tobacco transformed British society from the late 16th century, evolving from a controversial import into a profitable, addictive staple. Despite King James I's warnings and government attempts to ban it, smoking became a universal ritual across all classes. The trade fueled political tensions and economic dependence, while personalized tobacco boxes emerged as vital social accessories and tokens of affection.
I cannot refrain from a few words of protest against the astonishing fashion lately introduced from America – a sort of smoke tippling which enslaves its victims more completely than any other form of intoxication, old or new.