On this day

9 March in history.

5 moments from 1776 to 2011: discovery, creativity and courage, each with a source to read more.

5 moments

Barbie logo originally from the 1959 launch, it was still used on some merchandise. The logo was returned mainly in 2009 to promote the Mattel rebrand

1959

Barbie is introduced. Ruth Handler's new doll, Barbie, made her first appearance at a big toy fair in New York City. She went on to become one of the best-selling toys ever.

Wikipedia: Barbie

Photo: Mattel, Inc. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

More from 9 March

  1. Adam Smith

    1776

    The Wealth of Nations

    Scottish thinker Adam Smith published his book on how trade, work and markets create wealth. It shaped the study of economics.

    Wikipedia: The Wealth of NationsWikipedia: Adam Smith

    Photo: Unknown author / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

  2. Photograph of Giuseppe Verdi, circa 1872

    1842

    Verdi's breakthrough

    Giuseppe Verdi's opera Nabucco opened at La Scala in Milan. Its success, after hard years in his life, made his name.

    Wikipedia: NabuccoWikipedia: Giuseppe Verdi

    Photo: Ferdinand Mulnier / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

  3. Patient receiving dialysis

    1960

    A lifeline for kidney patients

    Doctor Belding Scribner fitted his new shunt in a patient for the first time, making it possible to give kidney dialysis again and again over years.

    Wikipedia: Belding Hibbard ScribnerWikipedia: Kidney dialysis

    Photo: Anna Frodesiak / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

  4. Space Shuttle Discovery

    2011

    Discovery comes home for good

    Space Shuttle Discovery landed for the last time after 39 flights, more than any other spacecraft.

    Wikipedia: Space Shuttle Discovery

    Photo: NASA / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Moments chosen for discovery, creativity and courage. Each one links to a source where you can read more; photos are credited to their owners.