Alfred Mosher Butts

Game designer, inventor of Scrabble

Alfred Mosher Butts - Game designer, inventor of Scrabble
Born

April 13th, 1899
126 years ago

Died

April 4th, 1993
32 years ago — 93 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A game designer developed the popular word game Scrabble in the early 1930s. This game combined elements of crossword puzzles and word games, utilizing letter tiles with varying point values to create words on a grid. Butts created the game while he was seeking a way to combine his interests in architecture and word play. It was initially called 'Lexiko' before being renamed Scrabble. The game gained popularity after its commercial launch in 1948, leading to a successful partnership with game manufacturer Selchow and Righter. The game's enduring appeal has resulted in numerous editions and variations, establishing a lasting legacy in the realm of board games.

Invented Scrabble in the 1930s

Created the game to combine word play and architecture

Secured a commercial launch in 1948

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