America's First Flavored Gum

The first chewing gum distributed in sticks, Black Jack has an unmistakable black licorice flavor, rounded out by anise and ginger. Black Jack gum got its start from Mexican chicle brought over to the states by the exiled President Santa Anna. Thomas Adams bought the chicle from Santa Anna, and he originally intended it to be tested as a natural alternative to rubber. However, after several failed attempts, Adams patented a gum-making machine and added flavorings to produce the chewing gum that is now an iconic piece of history!