Patent granted for Kewpie doll design

In 1913, Rose O'Neill was granted a patent for her Kewpie doll design, a significant step in securing her intellectual property and establishing her business acumen. The dolls became immensely popular, serving as one of the earliest examples of character merchandising in the United States. This achievement underscored O'Neill's entrepreneurial spirit and creative genius, allowing her Kewpies to become beloved worldwide and ensuring her financial success and autonomy in a male-dominated industry. The success of the dolls further amplified her influence as a leading figure in both the arts and business.