Ruth Handler was an American businesswoman best known as the co-founder of Mattel, Inc. She was born on November 4, 1916, in Denver, Colorado. Handler is credited with creating the iconic Barbie doll in 1959, which revolutionized the toy industry and became a cultural phenomenon. Her vision for Barbie was to provide girls with a role model that encouraged imagination and independence. Handler faced challenges in her career, including battling Breast cancer, which led her to advocate for awareness and research. She also served as Mattel's president and played a pivotal role in the company's growth during the 1960s. In addition to Barbie, she contributed to the development of other successful toys like Ken and the Chatty Cathy doll. Handler's impact on the toy industry and her legacy as a pioneering female entrepreneur continue to inspire many. She passed away on April 27, 2002, leaving behind a lasting influence on children's play and culture.
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