subject: A history of puzzles [print this page] A history of puzzles A history of puzzles
A history of puzzles
The first puzzle ever was made in 1780 by geographer and engraver John Spilsbury in London. He drew one of his maps on a wooden plate and then cut out the pieces representing different countries with a saw. This first puzzle was actually used to teach children geography.
Consequently, all first puzzles were made of wood until cardboard was introduced back in the early 19th century, though wooden puzzles remained popular as they were still considered to be of better quality.
Before the 20th century, puzzles were quite dear and only upper classes could afford them so when new manufacturing techniques were introduced they grew in considerable demand. The 1920s and 1930s were the golden era of puzzles which then increasingly became more and more difficult and intricate as they were not only for children but also adult oriented. Neither television nor computers existed, and if we also keep in mind that the world was going through financial hardship right then, puzzles seemed to the perfect affordable choice to provide endless hours of entertainment both to children and grown-ups.
Now what do you think the hardest puzzle ever is ? Some may differ but most experts will agree on Jackson Pollock's Convergence as their top choice.
With such a rich history many people have fallen in love with more modern puzzles such as Flash Puzzle Games. There are many different types of online puzzle games and many take some of the great puzzles of the past and bring them to a new generation of people who would never have had a chance to experience them if they hadn't!
