This matchbox dates from the late 19th century and represents how matches could be packaged with patriotic imagery.
The top of this matchbox has a Union Jack flag, with a sailor on one side and a soldier on the other. Above, are the words 'HOME DEFENCE'. The matchbox was a propaganda item in a campaign to have Britain's military defence strengthened.
In the second half of the 19th century, insecurities over Britain's military defence led to the formation of rifle volunteer units in 1859, and to equivalent naval volunteer units. The rifle volunteers were the precursors of today's Territorial Army.
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