Hasbro, Inc.
Poland → USA
Agriculture, Food & Consumer Goods
Summary
Hasbro was founded in 1923 in Providence, Rhode Island, by three brothers — Henry, Hilal, and Herman Hassenfeld — whose Polish-Jewish parents had emigrated to the United States in the early 1900s. The brothers initially sold textile remnants, then pencil cases, then school supplies. Toys followed in the 1940s. In 1964 Hasbro launched G.I. Joe, the original action figure. The company acquired Milton Bradley (Monopoly, Scrabble, board games), Parker Brothers, Kenner (Star Wars toys), and the Wizards of the Coast (Magic: The Gathering). Hasbro is now one of the largest toy and entertainment companies in the world.
European Contribution
Polish-Jewish immigrant work ethic and family-business discipline.
American Impact
Built one of the largest American toy and games companies; G.I. Joe, Monopoly, and Scrabble are foundational items of American childhood.
Timeline Highlights
- Early 1900s Hassenfeld parents emigrate from Poland
- 1923 Hassenfeld Brothers founded in Providence
- 1964 G.I. Joe launched
- 1984 Acquires Milton Bradley
- 1999 Acquires Wizards of the Coast