Children have been playing with games and toys for thousands of years. Travel back in time to 500 B.C., and you will find kids running around with primitive yo-yos and competing in board game matches. In addition to being extensive, the history of toys is quite intricate. With each new generation of children, there comes a fresh wave of dolls, action figures, and other various playthings. Most toys do not carry much of a legacy, but there are a few that have made a lasting impression on popular culture. These toys influenced the way people play and brought joy to millions of children throughout the world.
Going Beyond Nostalgia
You are most likely familiar with the iconic toys of the 20th century – the Frisbee, Barbie, Elmo, etc. – but are you aware of how they came into existence or impacted mass culture? You have probably never given much thought to the importance of these toys. For you, they have a personal significance, and they conjure up feelings of nostalgia. However, there is much more to these toys than the personal feelings you associate with them. Using the infographic below, you can look back on the history of 20th century toys. Discover how some of your favorite toys originated as well as other intriguing facts.