In the heart of the 1980s, a remarkable event occurred in the toy industry, reshaping the landscape for black representation. A pioneering mother, Yla Eason, transformed a vision into reality by creating Sun Man, a part of the Rulers of the Sun action figure line. These innovative toys were manufactured by Olmec Toys as a component of the He-Man collection, marking a pivotal point in the history of inclusive play. As such an essential piece of toy industry history, it is crucial to know when the original Rulers of the Sun action figures were made and how they began.
Inspiration for Sun Man
Eason’s journey began in 1985 when her son, Menelik Puryear, expressed a heart-rending sentiment. He believed he couldn’t be a superhero because he wasn’t white. This experience compelled Eason to delve deeper into the impact of toy representation on children’s self-perception, leading her to collaborate with renowned psychologist Dr. Kenneth Clark and his wife, Mamie. Their combined research underscored the power of representation in toys, fostering Eason’s resolve to fill the glaring void in the black toy market.
Emphasizing the beauty and strength of melanin, Eason cleverly incorporated this concept into her toy design. The Rulers of the Sun action figures, with Sun Man as the hero, drew his power from the Sun. This wasn’t merely a reference to his ability to generate energy, but also an ingenious way to portray the Sun’s role in darkening skin. Eason effectively turned the melanin that gives black skin its beautiful tones into a source of empowerment.
Sun Man’s heroism wasn’t just skin deep. Eason ensured he was a beacon of good character, Black representation, and inclusivity. She crafted a figure that embodied physical and emotional strength, offering Black children a toy that fulfilled their need for representation and mirrored their potential for greatness. Eason introduced Sun Man’s adversary, Pig-Head, to complete the narrative, bringing the timeless theme of good versus evil into play.
Conclusion
Eason’s audacious idea, spurred by a mother’s love and an ardent desire for equality, blossomed into a cultural icon. The original Rulers of the Sun action figures were officially made in 1986. They offered a powerful vision of what every child should see – a hero that looks like them and inspires them. They stand as a testament to the unyielding spirit of a mother who dared to challenge the status quo.
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About the Author
Author: Chris Ingledue
Contact: email
Bio: I am the founder and owner of Wheeljack’s Lab pop Culture and Toy Shop. My vision has always been to reunite customers with their favorite childhood toys and pop culture, triggering fond memories, and reigniting their imaginations. Every day, I work in the “lab” where it’s Christmas 365 days a year. I scour the internet, like when we had the Sears Catalog of yesteryear, for the next great treasure. Then, I await the arrival of the postman as if he were Santa Claus himself and helping collectors worldwide with their versions of Christmas. Every day as a vintage toy buyer is an absolute joy!