Lego's Humble Beginnings
Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen, Lego began as a small carpenter's workshop in Billund, Denmark. The name 'LEGO' was coined from the Danish phrase 'leg godt' meaning 'play well'.
First Plastic Bricks
Lego produced their first plastic bricks in 1949. Called 'Automatic Binding Bricks', they were based on Kiddicraft Self-Locking Bricks, which were patented in the UK years earlier by Hilary 'Harry' Fisher Page.
Iconic Brick Design
In 1958, the modern Lego brick design was patented. The unique interlocking principle with tubes makes Lego bricks versatile and grants unmatched building stability, revolutionizing the construction toy segment.
Lego Expands Globally
The 1960s saw Lego's expansion beyond Denmark. The company established a presence in Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom, France, and even crossed the Atlantic to the United States, paving the way for global recognition.
Minifigure Inception
The iconic Lego minifigure debuted in 1978 with movable arms and legs. These figures provided a human element to Lego sets, allowing for more imaginative play and storytelling.
Lego's Technological Leap
In 1998, Lego Mindstorms was launched, integrating programmable robotics into Lego constructions. It was a groundbreaking blend of traditional building with modern technology, fostering early STEM education.
Sustainable Bricks Future
Committed to sustainability, Lego aims to produce all products and packaging from sustainable materials by 2030. They've already introduced plant-based plastic sourced from sugarcane for certain elements.
Who founded Lego?
Hilary Fisher Page
Ole Kirk Christiansen
Danish carpenter's collective
Company
