Founded in 1889, Nintendo started out as a small playing card company in Japan. Though the cards sold well, Nintendo really became popular when it began creating toys in the 1960s, and then became internationally renowned after developing video games and consoles in the 1970s and ’80s. After introducing the world to some of the best-known and top-selling video game franchises of all-time, such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, and Pokémon, it’s clear to see why Nintendo is beloved by parents as a company that creates non violet, family-friendly entertainment for kids.
This is Book 48 in the What Was? Series. See all What Was? books here.
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Gina Shaw is a writer and editor who also teaches children's book writing at Hofstra University. She is the author of the Smithsonian books Welcome, Bao Bao ; Curious About Zoo Vets ; Curious About Snow; and T he Buzz on Insects . She lives in East Meadow, New York.
More about Gina ShawGail Herman has written several biographies and nonfiction books, including Who Was Jackie Robinson? and What Is the World Series?
John Hinderliter is an award-winning illustrator and fine artist living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
More about Who HqJames Buckley Jr. has written more than 50 books for kids, including Who Was Jesse Owens? , Who Was Muhammad Ali? and Who Was Roberto Clemente?
More about Andrew Thomson