Skip to: Content
Skip to: Site Navigation
Skip to: Search

December 2, 2008 5:10:01 AM CST

Learn about Newser Points »

« Back to the grid | Next story »

Still Clicking, Lego Turns 50

Posted Jan 29, 08 8:57 AM CST in Business,  Arts & Living 

(Newser) – When a Dane filed a patent for interlocking toy bricks 50 years ago yesterday, it began a revolution that has produced enough Legos to stretch to the moon 10 times over, writes Time. The toy, named Forbes' "Toy of the Century" in 1999, survived stiff competition from higher-tech playthings and video games in recent years.

Some seven boxes of Legos—so named for the first two letters of Danish phrase "leg godt, "or "play well"—are sold every second. "The Lego brick continues to fascinate because it allows children, and others, to develop their imagination, and curiosity," a company spokeswoman told AFP, noting that today's Legos still click neatly into those of 50 years ago.

Sources AFP, Time

0 comments | Print E-mail | Digg Seed this on Newsvine Add this link to Del.icio.us StumbleUpon

Related Newser Stories

  • Court: Lego Can't Trademark Bricks' Shape

    Nov 12, 08 5:14 PM CST
    Court: Lego Can't Trademark Bricks' Shape A European Union court ruled today that Lego can’t trademark the shape of its iconic toy building blocks, Bloomberg reports. The court supported a 2006 decision by the EU trademark agency that said because the raised circles on Lego blocks serve a “utilitarian function,” they are ineligible for trademark. Lego plans to appeal to a higher court. More »

  • Ten Christmas Wishes From Wired

    Nov 23, 07 12:34 PM CST
    Ten Christmas Wishes From Wired Wired editors have picked out their gadget wish list for the holidays this year, and while the list includes some high-tech toys like TVs and palmtops, it starts out with a standby: a slinky.

    1. Slinky (everyone knows it's slinky)
    2. Nokia N810 (open source palmtop)
    3. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean (invincible wristwatch)
    4. Canon Powershot G9 (small but nifty camera)
    5. Legos Imperial Walker (you know you want one)
    More »

Eric McCarthy works on his Chinese dragon Lego train at a gathering of lovers of the building blocks at the Fremont Main Library.   (KRT Photos)
In this handout photo provided by Legoland, worker Larry Bradley puts the final touches on a Lego replica of the New York New York Hotel and Casino before the grand opening of Miniland Las Vegas at Legoland...   (Associated Press)
A 50-strong group of Lego men. The patent for building bricks beloved by millions was filed 50 years ago yesterday, on January 28, 1958.   ((c) mil8)
Lego city   ((c) tomeppy)
Artist Erich Harshbarger created this tree frog from from Lego building blocks.   (KRT Photos)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
Our editors also recommend:

Tags

toys • patent • Lego


Loading...

Premium Articles from HighBeam

Find more articles like this

Today's Most Popular

Loading...

Other Arts & Living Stories

What is Newser?

2008 Codie Finalist

Face it: there's too much news. At Newser a team of editors and writers culls the most important stories from hundreds of U.S. and international sources and reduces them to a headline, picture, and two paragraphs. It's the Newser guarantee: we can take any report or column or video and pack what you need to know into 120 words or less. Newser's short-form aggregation, visual format, and unique information tools help you get more of the kind of news you want, in a quicker and more entertaining way. And we do it 24/7—you can come back morning, noon, night (and in between) for something new that matters. Read less, know more.

Learn more »