Barbie was first introduced at the American International Toy Fair in New York on 9tth March 1959. She was created by Elliot Handler, the founder of Mattel, Inc., and his wife, Ruth. The doll was named after the Handlers' daughter, Barbara. Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Robert.

It was a plastic doll, 11.5 inches (29 cm) tall, with the figure of an adult woman. The doll's womanly figure and painted face got mixed reviews. The doll was intended to be a teenage fashion doll. More than forty years later Barbie is still be one of the most successful and enduring toys on the market.

Since her introduction in 1959, the Barbie doll may be the most influential icon of American culture. Over the years she has been given many companions, the best known being her beau Ken, who made his debut in 1961. Ken is the name of the couple's son. Other friends in Barbie's diverse social circle include Hispanic Teresa, African American Christie and Steven, and Kayla. She was soon joined by friends Midge and Allen and a little sister Skipper.

Barbie’s first career was as a teenage fashion designer. Since than she had many careers including a teacher, astronaut, veterinarian, soldier, singer, flight attendant, and model. Barbie also keeps up with the latest technology. She got her first computer in 1985.

The character of the Barbie doll was portrayed independence and glamour: Barbie was a fantasy. She was the symbol of post-war female independence. She was exciting. Barbie was designed for women by women. Flashy clothes, the perfect boyfriend, a Corvette, Ferrari, full size apartment with beautiful furniture and a boat. She's was the woman who had everything. Barbie would not compromise her freedom.

Barbie doll has a dog named Tanner. Tanner is soft and fuzzy and her mouth, ears, head and tail really move. Barbie doll has a horse named Tawny. She loves her beautiful horse. Tawny is just like a real horse she really walks and neighs. Barbie has a fan club and received thousands and thousands of letters. Barbie introduced a rap group known as “BARBIE AND THE BEATS” in 1990.

Today the doll has come to symbolize consumer capitalism and is a global brand. It has become the most popular doll in the history of the United States. Over the last 40 years, more than 100 million Barbie dolls have been sold in the around the world. Barbie’s clothing has also been created by world-famous designers Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, Valentino, Perry Ellis, Oscar de la Renta, and Bob Mackie.