Stuff You Should Know POGs: The 90s in a Bottle Cap
Jun 10, 2021
Dive into the vibrant world of POGs, the quirky 90s collectible craze that took playgrounds by storm. Discover the game's humble origins and how a Hawaiian teacher reignited its popularity, linking childhood memories to international fads. Hear about the emotional stakes when kids played for keeps and the amusing controversies that led to playground bans. Plus, learn how POGs became an unlikely form of currency for the military. This nostalgic journey is sprinkled with fun listener stories and quirky facts about slime molds!
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The Birth of Pogs
- Blossom Galbiso, a Hawaiian teacher, revived milk caps to curb playground violence in 1991.
- This simple game, using cardboard milk bottle caps, captivated students and ignited the Pogs craze.
Menko to Milk Caps
- Milk caps, the precursor to Pogs, originated in Hawaii from a Japanese game called Menko.
- Immigrants brought Menko to Hawaii in the late 19th century, where it evolved into milk caps.
Rapinski's Pog Empire
- Alan Rapinski, recognizing the potential of milk caps, acquired the Pog brand name from Haleakala Dairy.
- He transformed the game into a global phenomenon, forming the World Pog Federation.