via History Cooperative

Everyone seems to be talking about the Barbie movie, directed by Greta Gerwig, who has promised the world a fresh take on the beloved doll and an examination of her significant cultural impact over the years. Barbies have challenged the world’s representations of race, body type, and careers since their first doll debuted in 1959. Until we can watch the Barbie movie here in Egypt, let us tell you about the doll’s history and how it massively affected pop culture.

Inspired by a Young Daughter:

via Time

In the late 1950s, Ruth Handler, co-founder of the Mattel company with her husband, Elliot, saw her daughter Barbara playing with cut-out paper dolls and enjoying imagining various roles and settings for them, which led to the creation of the Mattel Barbie.

How Were Dolls Like Before Barbies?

via Dusty Old Thing

Most girls’ toys in the 1950s were either baby-related or miniature versions of everyday domestic items like kitchens, tea sets, and serving tables. Ruth Handler, however, wanted to create a toy that would empower females in ways that went beyond those stereotypes.

She pioneered the idea of a character with her own world, consisting of not only her body but also her wardrobe, transportation, and her living space. This risky plan took investors and the board of directors of Mattel aback.

Success Story:

via Ckamgmt

The first Barbie doll, named after Ruth’s daughter Barbara, was shown at the New York International Toy Fair in 1959. Since the doll looked like it was designed for teenagers and did not advocate conventional family values, no major American company was willing to put their money into it.

Mattel then decided to offer the product to retailers without the help of distributors. A year later, Barbie and her associated world were smashing sales records, with the initial marketing budget of $1 million recouped in only the first month!

‘Kenergy’ Time:

via Live Auctioneers

Two years after Barbie’s debut, in 1961, Ken Carson, her on-off long-term lover, made his debut. Ken was called in honour of Ruth Handler’s son. Later on, Barbie was granted a group of friends.

The Barbie Doll CV:

via Karousell

To date, Barbie has held over 250 jobs over her existence. She was four years ahead of Neil Armstrong in 1965 when she became the first person to break the ‘plastic’ barrier by visiting the moon! She has since tried her hand at several other professions, including that of an accountant, doctor, rock star, and computer engineer.

Barbie has been the subject of controversy ever since it was first introduced, yet it continues to represent strong women with lofty goals. The film version seeks to highlight the lasting influence of this cultural figure, and we can’t wait to watch it!