In the article we get a feel for how and why tobacco use
became so popular in Europe despite King James’ campaign against its use. It
started out being imported, in generally small crops, over to Europe around 1600 where it
was sold for a fairly high price. Due to growing demand and popularity, by 1700
the price decreased significantly as the development of the crop growing process
became more efficient and the amount of tobacco imported to Europe
increased. In addition, we get an idea
of the settings in which tobacco was used and became a part of everyday life. The
text explains that people would gather in a smoking club, smoke at the dinner
table and even in bed, and that doctors endorsed the substance.
We get a sense of King James’ strong dislike of tobacco. He
describes the foul smell and the negative side effects, but given the massive
extent of the popularity of tobacco in Europe, why do you think he was unable
to over look the negative aspects as the majority of the population did? Do you
think there could be political reasons? Why or Why not?
The article states that the use of tobacco created an
industry for tobacco-related paraphernalia. Why do you think this is
significant to European history? To American History?
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