The Ultimate G.I. Joe Day Guide: History, Toys, And More

Posted on January 31, 2025

by Eric S

One of the most important contributions to the world of toys in the 20th century was released on Feb. 1, 1964—the original line of G.I.Joe figures. This anniversary is now recognized by fans around the world as G.I. Joe Day.

G.I. Joe added a degree of realism, customization, and play value previously unseen while also serving as the starting point for action figures as we know them today. While earlier military-like figures were small, cheaply-made, and offered little articulation, G.I.Joes were 12” tall with almost 20 moveable joints. Not to mention, you could accessorize them with additional outfits and gear (sold separately, of course).

G.I.Joe would find a whole new generation of fans in the 1980s with its famous line of 3 ¾” figures, which were supported by a hugely popular cartoon and comic book. While the original figures were essentially generic soldiers, this newer line of smaller toys, known as “G.I.Joe: A Real American Hero,” offered specific characters with surprisingly fleshed-out personalities (thanks in large part to the prolific and highly underrated comic writer Larry Hama, who also wrote the character bios on the back of the toy packaging). “A Real American Hero” would introduce the world to mainstays of the series, like Snake Eyes, Duke, Cobra Commander, and Destro, all of whom can still be seen in current G.I.Joe films, comics, and action figures.

Today, the G.I.Joe toys have, in many ways, been eclipsed by the live-action movies in the public consciousness. However, many of us still remember the joys of playing with the action figures, whether it be the 12” or 3 ¾” varieties—or both (some of us may even still have all our G.I.Joe figures and get them out from time to time, but I wouldn’t know anything about that). So, whether you’re reliving your childhood or looking to learn more about an influential, culturally important toy line this G.I.Joe Day, the Toledo Library has plenty of great books, comics, cartoons, and films to help you get in on the action.

For more great comics, books, and movies, make sure to check out the offerings of your local branch as well as the Hoopla, Kanopy, and Libby apps.

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