The LEGO LEGOLAND theme, introduced in the 1970s and continuing into the 1980s, comprised sets that replicated everyday scenes, vehicles, and buildings in a more simplistic style than later themes. These sets, pre-dating the minifigure era, were designed to represent various aspects of life, from towns to vehicles to castles. The LEGOLAND theme was foundational in the evolution of LEGO, bridging the gap between basic brick building and the more themed, narrative-driven sets that would become standard in subsequent years.
1969 LEGO Sets
1969 saw the launch of the DUPLO system, introducing double-sized bricks for preschoolers and opening a new age group for LEGO play. The company’s workforce surpassed 800 employees as sales and exports climbed. Trains advanced with new red spoked wheels, and LEGO Futura—an R&D division focused on concept development—was established in Billund. By this time, LEGO’s shift from cellulose acetate to ABS plastic was nearly complete, ensuring stronger and more colorfast bricks.