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A truly global sensation, Barbie is recognized, adored and celebrated around the world, representing 50 different nationalities throughout the decades.
 
Introduced in Europe in 1961, Barbie has helped commemorate historical events with worldwide impact, including the introduction of Summit Barbie in the 1980s, celebrating the end of the Cold War between the U.S. and Soviet Union, and the launch of Freundschafts (Friendship) Barbie in 1992, commemorating the historic tearing down of the Berlin Wall.
 
Always ahead of her time, Barbie has understood the significance of introducing new cultures to girls.  In 1980, a Collector series called Dolls of the World began featuring dolls dressed in national costumes and appropriate physical features

Fun Facts:

• Barbie’s real name is Barbie Millicent Roberts
• Barbie is from Willows, Wisconsin.  She attended Willows High School
• Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel, brought her vision of a three-dimensional doll to life with the introduction of Barbie in 1959
• Barbie first appeared in the now-famous black-and-white striped swimsuit and signature ponytail
• Barbie has four sisters: Skipper (1964), Stacie (1992), Kelly (1995) and Krissy (1995)  
• Barbie’s first pet was a horse named Dancer
• The first Barbie doll sold for $3.00 (1959)
• Barbie’s signature color is Barbie pink:  PMS 219
• Barbie’s first boyfriend, Ken, debuted two years after Barbie in 1961
• Ken was named after the son of Mattel founders Ruth and Elliot Handler
• Ken and Barbie broke up on Valentine’s Day in 2004 after being together more than 43 years  
• The best-selling Barbie doll ever was 1992 Totally Hair Barbie, with hair from the top of her head to her toes
• Barbie has been outfitted by more than 70 famous couturiers
• Barbie has had more than 108 inspirational careers

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