For centuries most toys were made of wood. They were designed to help children develop basic skills. Only in wartime did toys reflect current events. Toys made of tin and other metals really began to take off in the late eighteenth century. The latest inventions, discoveries, fashions and events could all be found in paper and metal.
In the nineteenth century, countries both new and old were keen to emphasise their national history. Governments in Europe began to build up their armies, some of them introducing compulsory military service. This increased the likelihood of war. The prevailing nationalism and mood of war were reflected in the toy shops. Children, too, were being prepared for the possibility of war. Armies of tin, lead and elastolin soldiers gave young boys an idea of what it was like to fight in a war. The miniature soldiers were made for children, but were invented for adults. These toys may appear innocent, but they are not.