Why Play Leap Frog?

Source: Internet Archive — Prelinger Archives · License: Public Domain Original

"Why Play Leap Frog" is a 1949 Cold War-era cartoon aimed at convincing workers that increased productivity can lead to greater purchasing power. The video features Joe, a doll painter at the Dilly Doll Factory, who is struggling with the rising cost of living. Despite wage increases, the cost of raw materials has also risen, making it difficult for Joe to afford the higher prices, even though the actual material cost of the dolls is only about 10 cents. The segment explains that labor costs significantly contribute to the final price of goods, using examples of cotton, automobiles, and beef. It illustrates that while raw materials have lower costs, labor costs accumulated throughout the production and distribution process can make up a large portion of the final product's value. The video emphasizes the need for collaboration between labor and management to increase efficiency and reduce costs, suggesting that expanding productivity requires investment in new tools and techniques.