Barbie Girl, Barbie,s World: La historia de las Barbies negras y el juego con muñecas

For several decades, Barbie has offered children a new way to imagine, create, and play. Through ongoing production and limitless potential, the Barbie brand is a staple of American childhood that deeply reflects the cultural political and social climate of the era. The first 'Black Barbie', known as "Colored Francie", was released in 1967, nearly ten years after the Barbie brand began in 1959. Many were concerned that Francie didn't accurately represent Black girls and women in the US as her appearance was just a mere replica of her white counterparts, created by using the pre-existing Barbie mold and finishing her with a deeper skin tone. Francie dawned the classic eurocentric features and copper straight hair with bangs. Due to poor sales, she was discontinued in 1968.

In this special edition Women's History Month course, students will explore this history and so much more, while coming to understand the amazing history interwoven into girlhood and the "politics of play". Together, we'll discuss racial inclusion in the doll industry, representation and iconic doll fashion. 


Course Structure:

5 Minutes: Introductions/Class Meditation
35 Minutes: Topic Overview
10 Minutes: Discussion
15 Minutes: Activity
5 Minutes: Final Thoughts & Closing