French Grenadiers of the Guard 54mm Toy soldiers, A Grenadier from French, derived from the word grenade was originally a specialized soldier, first established as a distinct role in the mid-to-late 17th century, for the throwing of grenades and sometimes assault operations.

At this time grenadiers were chosen from the strongest and largest soldiers. By the 19th century, the throwing of grenades was no longer relevant, but grenadiers were still chosen for being the most physically powerful soldiers and would lead assaults in the field of battle.