History's Best Selling Products of 1914

1. Drift and Mastery

   Released in 1914 by Walter Lippmann, Mitchell Kennerley

   Published in 1914, Walter Lippmann's 'Drift and Mastery' arrived at a pivotal moment in American history, on the cusp of World War I and deep within the Progressive Era's clamor for reform. The book is historically significant for articulating a powerful critique of unmanaged societal evolution and proposing a radical new vision for modern industrial America. Lippmann argued that the complex challenges of urban industrialism could no longer be left to traditional political processes or market forces alone. Instead, he called for a conscious, scientific application of intelligence to social and economic problems, shifting society from a state of 'drift' towards 'mastery.' This intellectual framework deeply influenced a generation of progressive thinkers, policymakers, and academics, providing a philosophical backbone for calls for expert-led governance and social planning in the 20th century.

2. Tinkertoy

   Released in 1914 by Toy Tinkers Company, Charles H. Pajeau

   The year 1914 marked the debut of Tinkertoy, a toy that would soon captivate the imaginations of children across America and beyond, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon. Far from just another plaything, Tinkertoy emerged as a brilliant response to the simple, innate human desire to build and create. Its launch introduced a revolutionary approach to construction play, offering an accessible and engaging system that transformed everyday spools and sticks into endless possibilities. This ingenious toy captured the spirit of innovation and hands-on learning, cementing its place in history as one of the most enduring and beloved educational play systems of the 20th century.