How did Gershon Legman help increase interest in origami after World War II?

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Red origami crane with outstretched wings and pointed beak, displayed against a solid black background. — origami An origami crane.

After World War II, the American folklorist Gershon Legman played a significant role in increasing interest in origami through intensive research and international promotion.

A key contribution occurred in 1955, when Legman organized an exhibition in Amsterdam featuring the work of the renowned Japanese master Akira Yoshizawa. By showcasing the creations of Yoshizawa—who was widely considered the preeminent folder of his time—Legman helped inspire subsequent generations of paper folders and brought greater visibility to the art form on a global stage.1