The LEGO DUPLO theme was introduced as far back as 1969 and is designed for children ages 1 to 5. It features DUPLO figures which are much larger than minifigures and DUPLO blocks which are about twice the length, width, and height of a standard System brick. Like LEGO System, DUPLO also has subthemes that are often junior versions of System themes, like Pirates and Castle and licensed themes like Disney and Super Heros.
1973 LEGO Sets
1973 marked major structural and product milestones for LEGO. The company ended its U.S. licensing agreement with Samsonite and established LEGO Systems, Inc. in Brookfield, Connecticut, giving LEGO direct control over its American distribution. DUPLO was formally branded as a standalone preschool line, expanding on the larger bricks first introduced in 1969. Early Town sets began to appear with simple, posable figures—precursors to the modern minifigure—bringing more life and movement to everyday scenes. LEGO’s catalog continued to grow rapidly, reinforcing its position as a leading global toy brand.