| Barbie dolls are the most well known doll ever | | | | makes Barbie dolls,was founded in 1945 by Elliot and |
| produced. Here are 10 facts you should know about | | | | Ruth Handler in partnership with Harold Matson. The |
| Barbie | | | | name Matell is a combination of the names Matson |
| 1. Barbie will be half a century old in the year 2009. | | | | and Elliot. |
| She was introduced in 1959 at the New York toy fair. | | | | 3. Barbie has had over 80 careers. The first was as a |
| Barbie #1 wore a zebra striped one piece | | | | teenage fashion model. She has had military careers in |
| swimsuit,high heeled,open toe,shoes and had either | | | | the Marine corps,airforce and navy. She has been an |
| blonde or brunette hair. | | | | astronaut,a lawyer a doctor and a rock star. She was |
| 2. Barbie was named after Barbara Handler,the | | | | a candidate for the presidency of the USA in 1992 |
| daughter of Ruth handler. The Matell company,which | | | | and again a candidate in the year 2000. |