The Toys That Built America (2021)

Episode Overview

Amidst the post-war baby boom that fuels an extraordinary thirst for toys, Ruth Handler takes a daring leap that leads to the creation of the world’s most iconic toy. At the same time, rival Merrill Hassenfeld, leading a company destined to become a household name, seeks to ride the wave of Handler's triumph by introducing a military doll for boys. This product is cleverly rebranded as the first-ever "action figure," paving the way for a popular TV series and movie franchise. For years, these two companies vie for supremacy in the toy market, but as cultural trends evolve, they find themselves making bold decisions that solidify their toys' legendary status.