The Controversial Golliwogs: Racist or Inspiration of The Past?

A number of toys are spread in various stores today. But surely, only a few could actually catch much attention from people, either the ones who are representing popular cartoon characters or those having much higher prices but with reasonable value like education-related ones.

However, have you encountered toys that have represented a big issue in racism? Most probably not.  But now, you will likely have the privilege to come across one with Golliwogs. What are they anyway?

Golliwog Character

Golliwog is a black character in children’s books during the 19th century. The toys are represented by rag dolls having the depiction of black men.  The popularity of the toy became apparent in Australia and Europe during 1970s era. A golliwog doll would likely have black skin, clown lips, frizzy hair, and white-trimmed eyes. Generally, golliwog character is male. But due to the popularity of the toys, females were also introduced to gratify people’s requests.

The Racism Issue

Do you know that golliwogs have been issued with racism? This is due to the fact that the doll seems to represent African descent. According to the people who are against the golliwog doll, the dolls do cause an offense to black people and removing them is practically helpful to avoid the heat between races.

Furthermore, it was clarified by the protesters that from the character itself, golliwog is white person trying to disguise as African to reverse the greatest crime in human history, which includes the slavery of Africans. They indicated that putting the story for fun is never acceptable. Thus, cartooning slavery, brutality, and racism must not be affirmed.

The Acceptance

Indeed, racism is a very important issue to people. However, it is based on your understanding whether golliwog is truly racist or not. From the history of the toy character, you could relatively conclude that Florence Kate Upton never meant to imply that racism is the symbol of her character. Instead, she just applied her idea of illustrating the children’s book The Adventures of Two Dutch Dolls and Golliwog.

The Uncontrollable Recognition

Many would still stir issues regarding the doll. You just have to be reminded that people who appreciate the dolls were never racist. As indicated by their personal statements, the golliwog dolls simply provide them the means of recollecting the memories of their childhood. Therefore, one could decisively say that golliwog would still be part of toys kids can enjoy and accepting it is a matter of a choice.

For more information about Golliwogs, visit site HERE!