What is the story behind the Jack-in-the-box?

Question

I want to know where it originated and why it became so popular as a gift to young children.

Answer 1

One theory as to the origin of the jack-in-the-box is that it comes from the 13th century English prelate Sir John Schorne who is often pictured holding a boot with a devil in it. It is believed in folklore that he once cast the devil into a boot to protect the village of North Marston in Buckinghamshire. Another theory offered by investigative reporter Pete Patterson paints a much darker past. According to him The original Jacks weren't actually clowns, but instead runaway slaves ("Jacks" in slang.) The first Jack in a box was actually a live captured runaway slave in a wooden box. Often children playing where they shouldn't, would jam sharpened wooden sticks though the knotholes of the boxes. In reaction the "Jack" inside would yelp, and often bust through the top of the box. John Schorne, inspired by his childhood antics, began hand crafting and selling Jack in The Boxes. The simple music box would crank and POP out came a crudely crafted black man on a spring. The idea quickly took off as one of the first novelty gifts. The black man in the box was gradually phased into a clown.