Peter III of Russia, husband of Catherine the Great, ruled for just six months. Much of that time was spent playing with toy soldiers. 

He drilled miniature troops in elaborate formations, staged mock battles, and even dressed palace servants in uniforms to serve as “life-sized” toys. 

While state affairs waited, Peter promoted or punished figurines for their imaginary performance. His eccentric behavior helped fuel Catherine’s coup, and she soon replaced him on the throne.