How American Jewish immigrants invented childhood

What this episode covers

Michael Kimmel’s Playmakers reveals how Jewish immigrants built America’s toy industry—and reshaped modern childhood. From teddy bears to superheroes, they turned outsider grit into imagination, comfort, and cultural revolution. This isn’t just toy history; it’s a story of identity, reinvention, and why play became one of America’s most powerful ideas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Martini Judaism?

This episode is 54 minutes long.

When was this Martini Judaism episode published?

This episode was published on February 27, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Michael Kimmel’s Playmakers reveals how Jewish immigrants built America’s toy industry—and reshaped modern childhood. From teddy bears to superheroes, they turned outsider grit into imagination, comfort, and cultural revolution. This isn’t just toy...

Can I download this Martini Judaism episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.