Introduction
The 1960s was a decade of cultural and social change, and this was reflected in the toys that were popular during that time. From action figures to board games, the 1960s saw the rise of iconic toys that have remained beloved by generations. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and explore the most popular toys in the 1960s, from classic Barbie dolls to futuristic space-themed playsets.
Part 1: Dolls and Action Figures
Level 1: Barbie Dolls
Barbie dolls were a huge hit in the 1960s, with their fashion-forward outfits and accessories captivating the imaginations of young girls everywhere. The release of new Barbie dolls each year, along with playsets and vehicles, kept children eagerly collecting new additions to their Barbie world.
Level 2: G.I. Joe
On the flip side, action figures like G.I. Joe captured the attention of young boys, providing them with a military-themed toy that allowed for imaginative play and adventures. With a wide range of accessories and vehicles, G.I. Joe was a must-have for many young boys during the 1960s.
Part 2: Board Games and Puzzles
Level 1: Monopoly
Monopoly was a staple in many household game collections during the 1960s. The classic board game provided hours of entertainment as players bought, sold, and traded properties in an attempt to become the wealthiest tycoon on the board.
Level 2: Rubik’s Cube
While not a traditional board game, the Rubik’s Cube became a sensation in the 1960s, captivating people of all ages with its challenging puzzle. The iconic 3D cube provided hours of frustration and satisfaction as players tried to solve its colorful sides.
Part 3: Space-themed Toys
Level 1: Major Matt Mason
With the space race in full swing during the 1960s, space-themed toys became a popular choice for children. Major Matt Mason, an astronaut action figure, led the charge in providing kids with a way to imagine themselves embarking on intergalactic adventures.
Level 2: The Easy-Bake Oven
While not a traditional space-themed toy, the Easy-Bake Oven capitalized on the fascination with futuristic technology by allowing children to bake small treats using a light bulb. The toy provided a way for kids to play at being a chef in their own mini kitchen.
Part 4: Outdoor Play
Level 1: Hula Hoop
The iconic Hula Hoop was a sensation in the 1960s, captivating people of all ages with its ability to provide endless hours of fun and exercise. The simple yet entertaining toy became a symbol of the carefree spirit of the decade.
Level 2: Frisbee
The Frisbee also became a popular outdoor toy during the 1960s, as people of all ages enjoyed tossing the flying disc around in parks and open spaces. Its simple design and ability to provide hours of entertainment made it a beloved pastime.
Part 5: Musical Toys
Level 1: The Beatles Fab Four Puppet Set
The Beatles dominated pop culture in the 1960s, and their influence extended to the toy industry with the release of the Fab Four Puppet Set. Fans could reenact the famous band’s performances with these collectible puppets.
Level 2: Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots
For kids who were more into rock ‘n’ roll than pop, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots provided an exciting way to engage in mock battles. The boxing-themed game pitted players against each other in a battle to knock their opponent’s robot’s head off.
Part 6: The Rise of Barbie
One of the most iconic toys of the 1960s was the Barbie doll. Created by Ruth Handler and launched by Mattel in 1959, Barbie quickly became a must-have toy for young girls all over the world. With her fashionable clothes, accessories, and dream house, Barbie represented a new standard of beauty and empowerment for young girls. Her popularity soared in the 1960s as Mattel released a wide range of Barbie dolls with different careers and outfits, appealing to a diverse range of interests and aspirations for young girls. The Barbie doll phenomenon even led to the creation of her boyfriend, Ken, and a whole cast of friends and family members, solidifying her place as a cultural icon of the 1960s.
Part 7: The Etch A Sketch Craze
In the early 1960s, the Ohio Art Company introduced the Etch A Sketch, a revolutionary drawing toy that captured the imagination of children everywhere. With its red plastic frame and aluminum powder screen, the Etch A Sketch allowed kids to create intricate drawings by simply turning the knobs to move the stylus and create lines and shapes. The toy became immensely popular due to its simplicity and the endless possibilities for artistic expression. It quickly became a staple in toy stores and households, providing hours of entertainment and creativity for children of all ages.
Part 8: The Wham-O Frisbee Revolution
Another iconic toy of the 1960s was the Frisbee, originally invented by the Wham-O toy company. The Frisbee craze began in the 1950s but reached new heights of popularity in the 1960s, with people of all ages taking up the sport of Frisbee throwing and catching. The simple plastic disc provided endless hours of fun and outdoor activity, spawning new games and sports like ultimate Frisbee. Its popularity also led to the creation of new variations, such as the Frisbee golf and Freestyle Frisbee, sparking a whole subculture of Frisbee enthusiasts. The Frisbee became a symbol of the carefree, outdoor lifestyle of the 1960s and remains a beloved toy to this day.
Part 9: The Rise of Barbie and G.I. Joe
In the 1960s, two iconic toys emerged that would become timeless classics: Barbie and G.I. Joe. Barbie, created by Ruth Handler and launched by Mattel in 1959, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. She represented a new kind of toy for girls, with her fashionable clothes, accessories, and various careers. The success of Barbie led to the creation of other doll lines, such as Skipper and Francie, further solidifying her place in popular culture.
On the other hand, G.I. Joe, created by Hasbro, was marketed as “America’s movable fighting man.” Launched in 1964, G.I. Joe was a 12-inch action figure that could be outfitted with different military uniforms, equipment, and vehicles. The toy was a huge hit, especially with boys, as it tapped into the patriotic and adventurous spirit of the time. The popularity of G.I. Joe led to the creation of a comic book series, an animated television show, and numerous spin-off products.
Both Barbie and G.I. Joe reflected the changing social and cultural landscape of the 1960s. Barbie challenged traditional gender roles with her diverse career options and independent lifestyle, while G.I. Joe embodied the spirit of American heroism and adventure. These toys became more than just playthings; they represented ideals and aspirations that resonated with children and adults alike.
As the 1960s came to a close, Barbie and G.I. Joe had firmly established themselves as cultural icons, leaving a lasting legacy that would endure for generations to come. Their influence on the toy industry would pave the way for even more groundbreaking toys in the decades that followed.
Conclusion
The toys of the 1960s have left a lasting legacy, with many of them remaining popular to this day. Whether it was classic dolls, action figures, or space-themed playsets, these toys provided hours of entertainment and sparked the imagination of children during a time of cultural change and innovation. Looking back at the most popular toys of the 1960s is a nostalgic journey through childhood playtime that continues to bring joy to people of all ages.