10 Vintage Ads From 1914 to 1939 That Defined Consumer Culture

Written by Erin Kuschner on March 18, 2025

Left: A man in a black suit lounges with one foot propped up, showcasing his Interwoven Socks. Right: A woman peacefully sleeps under a Kenwood blanket, with text promoting comfort and warmth.

WealthGang / u/CelebManips via Reddit.com / u/bil_sabab via Reddit.com

If you want to get a glimpse of life in the early 20th century, just look at advertisements from the era. These vintage ads were printed at a time before “Mad Men” and the Golden Age of Advertising, and often used hand-drawn illustrations, a focus on modernity, and patriotic sentiments to appeal to consumers. The following 10 ads, which span over two decades from 1914 to 1939, are a telling depiction of life in America at the time. Oh, and they might make you want to buy Listerine toothpaste or Cracker Jacks, too.