American Icons: Barbie
How did a German streetwalker become the All-American Girl?
Whether you’ve dressed her up in ball gowns or chopped off her hair, everyone has something to say about the All-American doll. Since her creation in 1959 — based on a sexy novelty item sold to German men — the best-selling doll in the world has charmed girls, lured collectors, made billions, and stirred controversy.
Is Barbie a negative female stereotype? Or is she a toy that encourages imagination? Countless artists have played with Barbie’s image, sometimes defiling the doll as a form of commentary, and the Mattel company has at times responded with lawsuits. Studio 360’s Leital Molad looks into how Barbie has endured and what her future may hold.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!