What appeal is primarily used in the ad about the Civil War train?

The appeal primarily used in the ad about the Civil War train revolves around the concept of "Passing from the Acceptable to the Dubious." This approach taps into the emotional and cognitive processing of the audience, guiding them from an initial acceptance of a narrative or idea to a more questionable or dubious stance based on the information presented in the ad.

In the context of such an advertisement, this could involve invoking shared historical sentiments or patriotic feelings associated with the Civil War train, leading viewers to a deeper engagement with the content. By positioning certain associations alongside the historical significance, the ad encourages the audience to ponder the implications or moral standing of the subject, potentially leading to a more controversial or provocative interpretation of the events or the train itself.

Other appeals such as flattery, pity, or bargain are distinct in their focus; they often target the audience's self-image, compassion, or desire for a deal, respectively. The nature of the cue in the advertisement focuses more on challenging perceptions and leading the audience through a complex emotional landscape—not merely appealing to their sense of self, emotions of sympathy, or financial interests.