Barbie was created by Ruth Handler in 1959. She was based on the Bild Lilli doll, with a very curvy body, that was in a comic strip created for adults in Germany. She has delighted little girls (and collectors) for three generations. Barbie and friends revolutionized the doll industry because of their size which was easy to hold, the availability of detailed wardrobes and accessories, and all at a reasonable price. For the past several years she has been one of the most popular collectable dolls for both little girls and serious collectors.