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Erasing the Cigarettes of History

Mar 14, 2005 3:24 PM
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Today's P.C. stamps airbrush the cigarettes out of historical figures' mouths.

If we can say that Washington and Jefferson were great men, despite owning slaves, why can't a delta blues guitarist have a smoke?


Comments: Erasing the Cigarettes of History

It would make sense if the cigarette was in the picture because of influence from the tobacco company (which was often the case back then, Hollywood and tobacco were really close).

If it was a natural pose, then that changes the context of the photo. Oh well, it's pop culture anyway, which is generally rather shallow. It's not like it's a great painting that is being changed.

Posted by: O'dell on March 14, 2005 4:53 PM | permalink

Strikes me that this makes no sense regardless of whether tobacco companies were involved or not. People smoke. That's life. Get over it.

Then again, I'm starting an advocacy group that'll work hard to eradicate male facial hair (beards and goatees in particular; Fu Manchus are ok). Anyone interested in joining?

Posted by: Nicardo Autobahn on March 14, 2005 10:56 PM | permalink

No more comments! Either someone has violated Godwin's Law, I'm tired of the discussion or, most likely, the ten-week window has closed. You can, however, contact me through email.