From wooden toys to interlocking bricks: A brief history of LEGO

A look back at LEGOs

LEGOs have been a longtime favorite for all ages, whether you're building Duplo homes or elaborate models. These stories originally aired on KDFW-TV on February 17, 1979 and January 31, 1985.

LEGO is one of the most recognizable toy brands in the world, sparking creativity in both children and adults alike. Founded in 1932 as a small Danish workshop producing wooden toys, LEGO started as something much different from the interlocking plastic bricks we know today.

It wasn’t until 1958—over 25 years later—that LEGO patented the modern brick design that revolutionized play and made endless creativity possible.

With its imaginative sets and timeless appeal, LEGO’s history is a testament to creativity, resilience, and constant innovation. Here’s how this beloved brand evolved into one of the world’s most iconic toys.

How LEGO got its start

LEGO was founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, a carpenter in Billund, Denmark. Facing the economic challenges of the Great Depression, Kristiansen turned to making wooden toys to support his family. These early toys included pull-along animals like ducks with movable beaks, brightly painted vehicles, and simple stacking blocks—standalone creations meant for imaginative play.

File: Young Emma Louise Avery holds a large box of Lego at Hamleys toy store in Regent Street, London, UK: May 3, 1974. (Photo by Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

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In 1936, the company adopted the name LEGO, derived from the Danish phrase "Leg Godt," meaning "Play Well." This name reflected Kristiansen’s commitment to creating high-quality toys that sparked imagination and joy.

By the late 1940s, LEGO began experimenting with plastic, a bold move at the time. In 1946, the company purchased its first injection molding machine, setting the stage for its most significant innovation—the introduction of its first plastic bricks.

The invention of the modern LEGO brick

In 1949, LEGO introduced its first plastic "Automatic Binding Bricks," inspired by similar bricks made by a British company called Kiddicraft. These early versions, however, lacked the "clutch power" that LEGO is now famous for.

The breakthrough came in 1958 when the company patented the interlocking brick design we know today. This design allowed bricks to snap together securely while being easy to separate, opening up endless possibilities for construction and creativity.

LEGO’s rise to global fame

The 1960s marked a period of rapid expansion for LEGO. In 1968, the company opened its first LEGOLAND Park in Billund, Denmark, drawing millions of visitors and showcasing the versatility of LEGO bricks.

File: Lego minifigures are displayed on the opening day of BRICK 2014 at the Excel Centre on November 27, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

In 1978, LEGO introduced its now-iconic Minifigures, adding a storytelling element to the brand’s sets. These tiny figures brought themes like castles, space, and pirates to life, capturing the imaginations of children and adults alike.

The company also embraced digital innovation early, launching its official website in 1996 and venturing into video games and movies in the years that followed.

Why LEGO remains relevant

LEGO’s success lies in its timeless appeal and adaptability. Its bricks are durable, endlessly reusable, and compatible across generations of sets. The company has also stayed culturally relevant by partnering with major franchises like "Star Wars," "Harry Potter," and "Marvel," bringing new fans into the fold.

In addition to its cultural relevance, LEGO has made a significant societal impact through its philanthropic efforts. The LEGO Foundation’s "Build a World of Play Challenge" has provided substantial funding to support early childhood development in underserved communities worldwide. The company’s LEGO Replay program, which encourages the donation of used bricks to children in need, combines sustainability with a commitment to giving back.

LEGO has also embraced sustainability, introducing eco-friendly bricks and exploring new technologies like augmented reality to enhance play. These combined efforts reflect LEGO’s dedication to creativity, innovation, and making a positive difference in the world.

Key milestones in LEGO history

1932: LEGO is founded by Ole Kirk Kristiansen in Billund, Denmark, producing wooden toys.
1949: Introduction of Automatic Binding Bricks, LEGO’s first plastic interlocking bricks.
1958: The modern LEGO brick design is patented, revolutionizing toy construction.
1968: The first LEGOLAND Park opens in Billund, Denmark.
1978: LEGO Minifigures are introduced, adding characters to LEGO sets.
1999: LEGO Star Wars becomes the brand's first licensed franchise, expanding its appeal.
2014: The LEGO Movie is released, achieving critical and commercial success.
2023: LEGO commits to using sustainable materials, replacing petroleum-based plastics.
2024: LEGO launches "LEGO Fortnite," a social roleplaying game in partnership with Epic Games.

LEGO’s legacy

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From its humble beginnings to its status as a global powerhouse, LEGO continues to inspire builders of all ages.

With new themes, innovative products, and a commitment to creativity, the company remains a leader in the toy industry, proving that its slogan, "Play Well," resonates as strongly today as it did 90 years ago.

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