1964’s Original G.I. Joe: The Patriotic Hero Inspired by JFK and American Nostalgia

When Hasbro released the original G.I. Joe figure in 1964, they didn’t just launch a toy—they created a cultural icon. Standing 12 inches tall and dressed in military fatigues, this groundbreaking figure represented much more than action-packed play. To American kids and parents, G.I. Joe became a symbol of patriotism, heroism, and the spirit of service that resonated deeply in a country still grappling with the effects of World War II and the Korean War. Its release also coincided with the patriotic fervor and optimism of the John F. Kennedy…

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