The first LEGO Duplo figures were introduced in 1977 and had a simple, early design. They were block-like, non-posable figures, similar in some respects to finger puppets, designed for safety and ease of use by preschoolers.
Design of the 1977 Duplo Figures
These early figures were simple and robust, created as a safe and recognizable character for toddlers a year before the standard minifigure was released.
Appearance: They had a square base designed to fit over a 2x2 Duplo stud. The body was a single, simple, limbless piece with a white, cylindrical head on top.
Lack of Articulation: Unlike later Duplo figures, the original 1977 people had no movable arms or legs.
Safety: They were not designed to be taken apart, which prevented small parts from becoming a choking hazard for young children.
Variety: The figures came in various occupations and appearances, including a police officer, a boy, a girl, a sailor, and a chef.
Early Sets Featuring Duplo People
These first figures were included in various Duplo sets that aimed to represent everyday life scenarios.
LEGO Set 522 Police Station: One of the first sets to feature these original figures, including police officer characters.
LEGO Set 535 Taxi: A small set that included a simple car and a driver figure.
LEGO Set 089 Mary's House: A basic house set that introduced figures into a home environment.
These simple figures continued to be released intermittently, in parallel with later, more detailed styles, until around 1990.