In 1959, Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel, inspired by her daughter’s fantasies of adult roles, introduced the first Barbie doll in a black-and-white swimsuit. This broke the tradition of baby-themed children’s toys.In 2001, Barbie in the Nutcracker, the first animated film in the series, was released by Universal Pictures, marking Barbie’s transition from a toy to a multimedia storyteller. To date, more than 40 animated works have been produced, spanning fairy tales, fairy realms, and modern school stories. Centered on courage and self-fulfillment, they have subtly influenced generations of children.
From a plastic doll to a cultural icon, Barbie has never been just a toy. She is a mirror of the times, a starting point for boundless imagination. She encouraged all girls to be brave enough to speak out “Anyone that I want to become is deserves of being seen”.
