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.
1972 LEGO Sets
In 1972 The LEGO Group officially expanded to the United States. After a licensing disagreement with the Samsonite Corporation, LEGO USA was established in Brookfield, Connecticut and Samsonite ended production of LEGO products in the United States but continued production in Canada. As far as new parts and production, 1972 saw the release of the first boat hull, wing, propeller and helicopter rotor parts as well as new parts including the 1x6 arches. The train theme continued to grow and a number of notable train sets of 1972 included set 181 Train Set with Motor, 180 4.5V Train with 5 Wagons and 724 12V Diesel Locomotive.