Multicultural and Career Barbies

In order to stand the test of time, Handler needed to make additions and changes to the doll to accomodate social changes. In the late 1960's the first black Barbie was released. The civil rights movement had just begun and segregation was still common. Handler decided to make a multicultural Barbie collection to appeal to more people. There are now Cinco de Mayo, Spanish, and Peruvian dolls as well.

In the 1980's Handler created Barbies with different careers. It was becoming more common for women to pursue a career outside of the home. She created astronaut, doctor, graduate, olympic swimmer, American Idol winner, and many other types of Barbies. Handler has since created 108 career themed Barbie dolls.

http://womensissues.about.com/b/2009/03/09/after-50-years-what-is-barbies-impact-on-girls-and-women.htm