Freedom to Smoke

Discover the intriguing social history of smoking in Montreal with Freedom to Smoke by Jarrett Rudy, published by McGill-Queen's University Press in 2005. This compelling paperback spans 248 pages and delves into the evolution of cigarette culture from the mass production era beginning in 1888 to the groundbreaking studies linking smoking to lung cancer in the 1950s.

Rudy examines critical issues such as the influence of gender, the rise of "big tobacco," early attempts to ban cigarettes, and the wartime tobacco funds that shaped public perception. He also highlights the unique smoking habits and rituals of French Canadians, offering a fascinating look at how smoking intertwined with notions of manliness and identity.

Whether you’re a history buff or interested in the social aspects of smoking, Freedom to Smoke provides an engaging and informative exploration of this complex topic.