This Day in History: The Barbie Doll Makes Its Debut (Sat., March 9)

This Day in History:, The Barbie Doll Makes Its Debut.

March 9, 1959.

The 11-inch doll was introduced to the world at the American Toy Fair.

Barbie was the brainchild of Mattel, Inc.

Cofounder, Ruth Handler.

Handler based Barbie on the German comic strip character Lilli.

She named the toy after her daughter Barbara, whose favorite toys were the inspiration for Barbie.

Mattel created the first television commercial for children to advertise the doll.

Since its creation, Barbie has been both an inspiration and a controversial figure.

The doll has been praised as a role model for young girls, while also criticized for its perceived materialism