The existence of 'ninots' in the fallas dates back to the XVIIIth Century.
At the beginning, there was just one 'ninot', in the XIXth Century, three or four, whereas now one falla may have for itself a hundred of 'ninots'.
The rudimentary 'ninot' (jumping jack) of the primitive fallas was made with trousers filled with straw and old jackets, set high up at the top of a pole, at which a mask was tied (used during carnival feasts in February).
Then masks, clothes and headdresses, all made with pasteboard, were used at that occasion.

Since 1935, a 'ninot' is elected and this ninot will be saved from fire.
So, every year before the fallas are burned, a show with the best 'ninots' is organized on the central market place.
The elected 'ninot' will be kept at the 'Museo Fallero'.
From the 50s, the caricaturist style of Juan Huesto and Modesto Gonzalez involves a change in the appearance of the 'ninots' ; this is the apogee of the comics and strip cartoons.