Handler's real breakthrough came in the late 1950s when she noticed her daughter Barbara playing with paper dolls and envisioning more interactive and relatable toys for girls. Inspired by the Bild Lilli doll she saw during a trip to Germany, Handler conceived the idea for an adult-bodied doll that could serve as a role model for young girls. In 1959, the first Barbie doll was launched at the American International Toy Fair. Initially met with skepticism and resistance, Barbie quickly gained popularity and became an international phenomenon. Handler led the marketing and sales efforts for the doll, which eventually led to Mattel becoming one of the largest toy companies in the world. Throughout her career, Handler worked to promote positive body image and empowerment for girls through Barbie. She introduced the Ken doll as Barbie's companion and created a wide range of Barbie dolls with different professions, ethnicities, and styles. Handler strongly believed that dolls could help girls visualize their future aspirations and break gender stereotypes. In addition to her work on Barbie, Handler played a significant role in expanding Mattel's product portfolio, including the introduction of Hot Wheels and Chatty Cathy dolls. She served as the president of Mattel from 1967 to 1973 and was the first woman in history to lead a Fortune 500 company. Ruth Handler's impact on the toy industry and popular culture cannot be overstated. Her entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and belief in the power of play continue to influence the industry today. She passed away in 2002, but her legacy lives on through the countless Barbie dolls that continue to inspire generations of children worldwide.