Celebrating her 50th birthday and the "gal" we grew up with in the 50's.  Her birthday - March, 1959 and still going strong.  Her name came about from her one of her creator's (Ruth Handler) daughter -Barbie (Barbara) Milacent Roberts.  Barbie was created for the little girl because  Barbie would allow for the "grown-up" pretend world for a little girl. Barbie represented all a woman could be popular, famous and wealthy and more.  The fantasies of what a little girl could dream up.

Barbie was the first fashion doll and the only one of  her kind on the market.  Baby dolls were the most predominant on the market and Mattel targeted the children in hopes of large sales.  The mothers were appalled at such a doll for sale but Mattel felt Barbie would be hit and she was. Modeled after a German doll named Lilli.  Lilli was known for her large breasts and sexy dress.

Now, let's follow Barbie through the years from her birth.  In 1961, Barbie meets Ken Carson and they start date. Barbie becomes an astronut in 1965, a nurse in 1973.  Olympic Barbie in 1975 and international Barbie in 1980 to include the black and hispanic Barbie.  Barbie joins the Army in 1989 and by 1992 she has joined the other three branches.  In the same year of 1992 she runs for President.  By 2004, Barbie breaks up with Ken after 43 years justt o reunite in 2006.

Today at age 50, Barbie is the highest earning doll.