The Surprising History of Barbie: Origins in Germany's Risqué Bild Lilli Doll

The Surprising History of Barbie: Origins in Germany's Risqué Bild Lilli Doll

Discover the unexpected origins of the iconic Barbie doll. While Barbie's image is often squeaky clean, her history is intertwined with Germany's Bild Lilli doll – a figure known for her heavy makeup, daring backstory, and curvy physique. Explore how Mattel co-founder Ruth Handler encountered Bild Lilli in Switzerland during the mid-1950s and saw the potential for an American market. Learn about the transformation from Lilli to Barbie that shaped generations of young girls in America.