The History of LEGO
LEGO, one of the most iconic toy brands in the world, began in a small Danish workshop in 1932...
Ole Kirk Christiansen, a carpenter, initially produced wooden toys before turning to plastic bricks in
1949. These early bricks, called “Automatic Binding Bricks,” were the foundation of what would become
LEGO. In 1958, Christiansen’s son, Godtfred, patented the modern LEGO brick design with interlocking
studs and tubes, which remains virtually unchanged today. This innovation gave LEGO unmatched
versatility and durability.
The name LEGO comes from the Danish phrase “leg godt,” meaning “play well.” The company’s
philosophy has always centered around creativity, learning, and play. During the 1960s and 70s, LEGO
expanded internationally and introduced themed sets, including LEGO trains, space, and town
collections. By the 1980s, LEGO had become a global powerhouse, branching into robotics with LEGO
Technic and LEGO Mindstorms.
Despite facing financial struggles in the early 2000s, LEGO reinvented itself through licensed sets like
Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Marvel, which brought new life to the brand. The LEGO video games and
movies also helped redefine LEGO as a multimedia empire.
Today, LEGO is not just a toy but a cultural phenomenon. With millions of fans worldwide, including
adult builders (AFOLs), LEGO remains a symbol of creativity, imagination, and timeless play.
