The history of sex dolls can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where crudely constructed figurines were used for both religious and sexual purposes.

The ancient Egyptians, for example, created dolls made of clay and wood that were believed to have powers to promote fertility and ensure a successful pregnancy. These dolls were often adorned with jewels and other precious stones, and were placed in the home of a couple trying to conceive.

The ancient Greeks also had a tradition of using sex dolls, although these were typically made of metal or ivory and were used for sexual pleasure rather than fertility. These dolls, known as "daktyli," were often small in size and were designed to be used by men.

In Japan, the tradition of creating sex dolls, known as "dutch wives," dates back to the 17th century. These dolls were typically made of wood or leather and were used by the country's lower classes as a form of sexual release. They were also used as a way to prevent sexual misconduct and to curb the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

During the 19th century, the invention of rubber and silicone allowed for the creation of more realistic sex dolls. These dolls were often used as a form of therapy for men with sexual disorders, and they were also marketed as a way to prevent masturbation.

In the 20th century, sex dolls evolved to become more lifelike and realistic. The development of synthetic materials such as silicone and TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) made it possible to create dolls that were soft to the touch and had a more human-like appearance. In the recent years, with the advancements in technology, sex dolls have become even more realistic and sophisticated, with the integration of artificial intelligence and robotic elements.

Despite their long history, sex dolls have been a healthy outlet for people with sexual desires that cannot be met in other ways. However, it's worth noting that, the use of sex dolls is not limited to men, there are a growing number of women who are using sex dolls as well, and there are also sex dolls designed specifically for women.

In recent years, there has been a growing acceptance of sex dolls and their use. Some people view them as a form of self-expression, while others see them as a form of therapy for those who have difficulty forming real-life relationships. With the advancements in technology and the increasing acceptance of sex dolls in society, it's likely that their popularity will continue to grow in the future.

Overall, the history of sex dolls is a long and varied one, spanning several centuries and numerous cultures. From crude figurines used for religious or fertility purposes, to the highly realistic and technologically advanced dolls of today, the evolution of the sex doll is a reflection of changing social attitudes towards sex and sexuality.