She might be the most famous doll in the world. For more than sixty years, Barbie has been played with, analyzed, collected, criticized and loved. In this illustrated lecture, historian Leslie Goddard delves into the history of Barbie and her inventor, the passionately creative – and intensely competitive -- Ruth Handler. Learn what inspired Handler to develop Barbie in 1959, how Barbie helped make Mattel one of the world’s most successful toy companies, and what Barbie’s impact has been on American culture.

Leslie Goddard, Ph.D., is an award-winning historian, author, actress, and lecturer who has been presenting on topics in American history and women’s history for twenty years. She holds an interdisciplinary Ph.D. from Northwestern University as well as master’s degrees in both museum studies and in theater. A former museum director, she currently works full-time as a public speaker and author. Her presentations have been seen by audiences in more than thirty states, including scores of universities, museums, libraries, festivals, and civic organizations.

Barbie: The History of America's Most Famous Doll