LEGO, not “Legos,” is a type of construction toy made from interlocking plastic bricks. It’s a global phenomenon, with over 400 million sets sold worldwide! The mastermind behind this iconic toy was Ole Kirk Christiansen, a Danish carpenter who founded the LEGO Group in Billund, Denmark. Interestingly, Christiansen is the grandfather of the current owner, Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen.
LEGO’s story began with humble wooden toys crafted by Christiansen in 1932. Following World War II, Denmark saw the introduction of plastic injection molding technology. In 1947, Christiansen seized this opportunity, purchasing the first such machine in Denmark to produce plastic toys. These early plastic toys weren’t the interlocking bricks we know today, but they marked a turning point.
Two years later, in 1949, LEGO introduced its revolutionary innovation: the interlocking brick. Originally called “Automatic Binding Bricks,” these early versions were available only in red and white. However, LEGO has come a long way since then, with a mind-boggling variety of 72 different colors available today!
Initially, LEGO sets were only available in Denmark, but their popularity soon spread internationally. The name “LEGO” itself is a clever combination of two Danish words: “leg godt,” which translates to “play well.” It’s a fitting name for a toy that has sparked creativity and imagination in children for generations.
LEGO proved to be Ole Kirk Christiansen’s most successful invention. The now-iconic LEGO brick design features studs on top and hollow rectangular bottoms that allow for secure connections, yet remain easy to pull apart for rebuilding. This ingenious design, along with the vast array of colors and themed sets, has cemented LEGO’s place as a timeless and beloved toy.
But LEGO’s impact goes beyond just child’s play. LEGO bricks have become a powerful tool for education, fostering STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) through problem-solving and creative building. LEGO has even found its way into the art world, with adult fans of LEGO (AFOLs) creating intricate and impressive sculptures. From iconic landmarks to fantastical creatures, LEGO’s versatility knows no bounds.
The LEGO story is one of continuous innovation. Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings to include motorized sets, programmable bricks, and even licensed themes based on popular movies and video games. Through it all, LEGO remains committed to its core values of creativity, quality, and imagination, ensuring that children (and adults!) continue to be captivated by the endless possibilities of a world built with LEGO bricks.