Golliwogs/Gollies

[Anita Bensoussane]

An interesting article, John (Lucky Star), and good points from Liam.

[Wolfgang]

I personally feel you're right. Although I can't be sure - maybe a few black people have complained in the past...but I would say the majority of complainants were white!

Maybe they're real racists who hate the thought that a child might like a black doll more than a white Barbie or Ken doll and don't want children to develop such ideas...

[Daisy]

Oh dear, what a thought Wolfgang, although there may be some truth in that.

[Rob Houghton]

I should think there are quite a few people who would never buy a golliwog for this reason - nothings ever black and white, if you'll pardon the pun!

[Daisy]

Rob. That is so true. The older you get the more you realize it too.

[Moonraker]

nothings ever black and white

Just fifty shades of grey...

[Daisy]

Thanks Nigel... I refrained!

[KEVP]

I will point out that Golliwogs are British toys, and characters in stories by British writers (like Enid Blyton). A typical American would not know what a Golliwog is, and probably would never see one.

Remember that the word "Golliwogg" was invented by Florence Kate Upton, an English writer (who had however also lived in the USA), and her books were popular in England, and so English toymakers started making Golliwogs. I don't think they have ever been made by American toymakers.

[Rob Houghton]

Which sort of proves that in the British psyche Golliwogs have never been associated with American culture, minstrel shows, or slavery.

[Moonraker]

Thanks Nigel... I refrained!

Dear Daisy, you know my major weakness is my inability to perform this act.

[mynameisdumbnuts]

I will point out that Golliwogs are British toys, and characters in stories by British writers (like Enid Blyton). A typical American would not know what a Golliwog is, and probably would never see one.

I have lived in America many years and can attest to that. The subject of golliwogs came up a few years ago at work and none of my co-workers had heard of them. They were rather ... taken aback when I showed them pictures. I've never seen a golliwog for sale in the States and I'm sure there would be a huge outcry if there were; but racial relations in America are complicated and fraught.

[Darrell71]

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-dorset-37430242
OMG!!
I'm so glad Viv is quoted as saying she's 'proud'.

[Deej92]

An interesting article here which I came across. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfr ... k-tory-mps" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[number 6]

The debate about Golliwogs will rage on for many years to come. You can present all the evidence that they are not racist until your blue in the face, but there will always be someone who will kick up a fuss...just for the sake of it! A lot of those that complain don't bother to find out the facts before opening their mouths. They just see the colour & assume it a racist symbol. I'm White, but I'm not remotely offended by the existence of White Golliwogs!

[Fiona1986]

So because that is your opinion, therefore everyone in the world HAS to agree?