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History of Milton Bradley Games

Milton Bradley has been in business for almost 150 years. It is responsible for hundreds of games in that time, many of which have become classics. Though it has changed hands between a number of different corporations, the name still evokes that wonderful sense of gathering around the kitchen table for a little bit of fun.

Founding
- Milton Bradley is named after the company's founder, who started it in1860 in the city of Springfield, Massachusetts. His first game was called The Checkered Game of Life, which later became The Game of Life--one of the company's staples.
The Kindergarten Movement
- Bradley was deeply influenced by the kindergarten movement in the late 19th century, which stated that children's inherent creativity helps them to learn. He dedicated his company towards furthering that movement, and made many contributions to local kindergarten schools.
James J. Shea
- After Bradley's death, the company's fortunes declined until it teetered on the verge of bankruptcy. James J. Shea was brought in as president in 1941 and turned things around by selling a kit of Milton Bradley games for soldiers fighting in the war.
Hasbro
- Hasbro purchased the company in 1984. It maintained the brand name and has continued to produce games under the Milton Bradley line ever since.
Successful Games
- The company has produced numerous classic games in its history, including Battleship in 1931, Candyland in 1949, Yahtzee in 1956, Mouse Trap in 1963, Operation in 1965, Twister in 1966, Connect Four in 1974, Simon in 1977 and Axis and Allies in 1984.

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