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Why did Mattel reject Ruth Handler's idea for a Barbie doll?

Ruth Handler's idea for a Barbie doll was rejected for years by Mattel's executives before it was released in 1959. (AP: Andrew Harnik) A detailed marketing plan revealed why Barbie was struggling to cut through and when the produce was unveiled on television months later, she was marketed not as a doll but as a model for young girls.

Why did Ruth Handler design the first Barbie doll?

Ruth Handler designed the first Barbie doll after seeing a similar design while on holiday in Europe. (Supplied: Los Angeles Times under Creative Commons 4.0) But a short holiday to Los Angeles opened 19-year-old Ruth's eyes to the possibilities of a life outside her small city.

How did Lilli handler create Barbie?

The irreverent and sexually suggestive Lilli inspired a novelty doll for European men, which ultimately caught the eye of Handler and led to Barbie’s creation. Here’s everything you need to know about Handler, her inspirations, and how she created the Barbie empire.

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