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Teddy Bear Vs. Billy Possum

Teddy bears are cuddly, cute, and you can buy one in just about any toy store in the country. But the strange origin of the teddy bear is less well-known. The story becomes even stranger when you consider that advertisers and toy makers alike planned to make American kids throw their teddy bears in the trash — in favor of cuddly, stuffed possums. 99% Invisible: Billy Possum comes to us from the 99% Invisible Podcast produced by Roman Mars, and Independent producer Jon Mooallem.

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