Who invented the first Jigsaw Puzzle?

In the mid-18th century, a remarkable innovation in children's education was born: the jigsaw puzzle. This captivating pastime was invented around 1766 by John Spilsbury, a London-based cartographer and engraver. Tasked with creating engaging educational tools, Spilsbury mounted a world map onto a piece of wood and carefully sawed along national boundaries.

His creation was intended to teach British students world geography in an interactive manner. Each piece, representing a country or region, had to be placed correctly to complete the map. This novel method combined learning with play, capturing the imaginations of both children and, eventually, adults.

Over time, jigsaw puzzles have evolved considerably, yet the educational essence and sheer joy of assembling them remain intact, a testament to Spilsbury's ingenious creation.