Godtfred Kirk Christiansen was a Danish businessman who was the managing director of the Lego Group from 1957 to 1973. He was the third son of company founder Ole Kirk Christiansen and took over as managing director in 1957, eventually becoming the sole owner. Godtfred is credited with playing a pivotal role in the development of the Lego brick design and patented it in 1958. He also created the Lego System in Play, the cornerstone of the Lego construction toy. Godtfred stepped down as Leader of the company in 1973. His son Kjeld Kirk Christiansen became president in 1979.
Godtfred Kirk Christiansen, Danish businessman (born 1920)
On July 13, in the year 1995, Godtfred Kirk Christiansen, Danish businessman (born 1920). This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of July 13, one of 385 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Godtfred Kirk Christiansen. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on July 13, 1995 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 9 May 2026.
On This Date in History 385
This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
People Involved
Godtfred Kirk Christiansen
Danish businessperson and second generation owner of The Lego Group
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