The 20th century witnessed significant changes in societal attitudes toward sex, relationships, and individual freedom. This period saw a rise in sexual liberation, as traditional ideas about monogamy, gender roles, and sexual norms were challenged. In this context, sex dolls played an intriguing role, evolving from taboo objects to more openly discussed symbols of sexual freedom and personal autonomy.
During the early part of the century, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s, sex dolls were still largely underground, used in private settings and seen as substitutes for human companionship, particularly by sailors and others who spent long periods away from home. These dolls were rudimentary, often made of rubber or fabric, and lacked the lifelike features seen in today’s models.
However, as sexual liberation movements gained momentum in the 1960s and 1970s, attitudes toward sex dolls began to shift. The sexual revolution and the feminist movement contributed to a broader acceptance of alternative sexual expressions and non-traditional relationships. Sex dolls, once seen as taboo or shameful, began to be recognized as tools for personal sexual exploration, fulfilling desires outside of conventional relationships.
In the 1980s and 1990s, as technology improved, sex dolls became more realistic and began to be marketed more openly, with advancements in materials like silicone and latex. By the end of the 20th century, the cultural perception of sex dolls had undergone a dramatic transformation, as they became recognized as part of the growing conversation about sexual freedom, identity, and non-traditional relationships.