History Vault Logo
HomeDocumentariesSeriesSearch
The Toys That Built America
Thumbnail for episode: Masters of Invention
S1 E1

Masters of Invention

Aired on Nov 28, 202142m

The incredible creations of some of the most iconic toys in history happened by chance. During World War II, a naval engineer accidentally creates an iconic spiral toy that walks down stairs.

Thumbnail for episode: Clash of the Toy Titans
S1 E2

Clash of the Toy Titans

Aired on Dec 05, 202141m

As the post-war baby boom creates unprecedented demand for toys, Ruth Handler turns her greatest gamble into the most recognizable toy in the world. Meanwhile, a rival tries to capitalize on her success.

Thumbnail for episode: Toy Car Wars
S1 E3

Toy Car Wars

Aired on Dec 12, 202142m

A young machinist in England invents one of the world's most successful toys when he creates a toy car small enough to fit inside a matchbox for his daughter to take to school.

Thumbnail for episode: Board Game Empires
S1 E4

Board Game Empires

Aired on Dec 19, 202142m

After failing to make a living selling lithographs, Milton Bradley creates one of America's first board games, which will go on to become one of the biggest of all time.