Barbie

Barbie is a fashion doll manufactured by the American toy company Mattel, Inc. and launched on March 9, 1959. The doll was created by American businesswoman Ruth Handler, who was inspired by the German Bild Lilli doll. Barbie has been an important part of the toy fashion doll market for over six decades.

Since her debut, Barbie has been portrayed with a vast range of careers, companions, and accessories, reflecting cultural and social changes over the decades. The doll's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts, and she hails from the fictional town of Willows, Wisconsin. Her on-again, off-again romantic partner is Ken Carson, introduced in 1961.

Barbie has expanded into a major media franchise, including animated films, television series, web series, and video games. The brand has sparked both adoration and controversy, with debates surrounding body image, consumerism, and gender roles. Despite this, Barbie remains one of the most recognizable and best-selling toys in history, evolving to include more diverse body types, skin tones, and abilities in recent years.