FAQ About Barbie

The creation of Barbie was inspired by Ruth Handler's observation of her daughter Barbara playing with paper dolls that had adult bodies. Ruth noticed that Barbara enjoyed imagining them in different adult roles, such as a doctor, nurse, or businesswoman. At that time, most dolls for children were infant or toddler dolls, so Ruth saw an opportunity to create a doll that could inspire girls to imagine their future possibilities. She envisioned a three-dimensional doll with a more mature appearance that could serve as a role model for girls, and Barbie was born.