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 The history of military nutcrackers dates back hundreds of years. As a whole, these nut cracking devices have been unearthed and carbon dated as far back as 400 B.C. However, it wasn’t until much later that they were found to be carved out of wood instead of poured from metal molds, making the fine detailing necessary for the colorful military nutcrackers we know and love.
Nuts have been an important staple in the diet of men and women for hundreds of years, and they were simply invented to enable one to easily open the thick shells of various kinds of nuts. In the beginning they were made from an array of different types of metals. They were a simple lever device that served the purpose for which they were created. It wasn’t until the 17th century that the tools were carved from various woods, allowing for ornate embellishments including animals, various flowering designs, and of course the military nutcrackers. These tools were now being fashioned to be both functional and decorative. The carving of these figurines of famous men, such as kings or those serving in the military became a popular form of usable art. It was done as homage to those in authority.
Folklore also indicates that some people believed that nutcrackers would ward off evil spirits by showing their teeth. The teeth were usually prominently displayed, no matter which character shape it took. So as the design became more ornate, so did the imaginations of the manufacturers.
This tool has become extremely popular during the Christmas holidays in the American culture, though they can be found in many other countries and cultures around the globe as well. They became so popular over the years that a famous ballet was even written about one in 1882. Attending the Nutcracker Suite ballet is a Christmas tradition in many families. Today, however, nut crackers have become more ornamental than functional particularly as Christmas decorations.
It is possible to purchase military nutcrackers that not only look like a soldier, but that also reflects a specific branch of the military. It may emulate a soldier from the United States Army (shown in full Desert Camouflage Uniform), Navy, Air Force, Marines or National Guard by sporting the specific uniform of the particular branch of the service it represents. This is a great way to keep up a holiday tradition while also honoring a family member or a friend who serves their country. What a better way to do this than with a piece derived from history itself.
Some of these nut-cracking devices are designed to resemble that ever so familiar toy soldier that most of us grew up with. Others may look historical, like a member of World War I, World War II, or the Civil War. They come in every shape, size, color, and form so that you will be able to find one that matches your Christmas décor and reflects your personal patriotic pride in sizes that are suitable as Christmas ornaments to large outdoor Christmas decorations.
Many people have formed collections that include a variety of military nutcrackers. Of course many can still function effectively, even if they were designed as a decoration, so remember this ancient tool this Christmas as the chestnuts are roasting on an open fire.
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