American Girl’s mission is to celebrate girls. We embrace who they are today and look forward to who they will become tomorrow.

Since the first catalogue debuted in 1986, American Girl has provided inspiring products for each stage of a young girl’s development—from her preschool days of baby dolls and fantasy play through her tween years of self-expression and individuality. Through an array of premium-quality books, dolls, clothes, toys, and accessories, American Girl has earned the loyalty of millions of girls and the praise and trust of parents and educators.

American Girl first introduced a line of historical characters—Kaya®, Felicity®, Josefina®, Kirsten®, Addy®, Samantha®, Kit®, and Molly®—that come to life through extraordinary books, 18-inch dolls, and accessories. The 9-year-old fictional heroines live during important times in America’s past, providing “girl-sized” views of significant events that helped shape our country, and bring history alive for millions of children.

In 1992, the company launched American Girl® magazine, an age-appropriate publication designed to affirm self-esteem, celebrate achievements, and foster creativity in today’s girls. With more than 650,000 subscribers, the magazine ranks among the top ten children’s magazines in the nation and is the largest magazine dedicated exclusively to girls.

In 1995, fueled by the success of the magazine, the company debuted a line of contemporary 18-inch dolls and accessories, called Just Like You®, that represent the individuality and diversity of today’s American girls. Subsequent books, toys, and clothing were also introduced to celebrate the variety of lifestyles and interests of girls today.

For younger girls ages 3 to 6, American Girl also introduced the Bitty Baby® line of soft, huggable baby dolls and related toys that encourage nurturing behavior.

The American Girl business was founded as Pleasant Company in 1986 by Pleasant T. Rowland and was acquired by Mattel, Inc. in 1998. American Girl products are marketed and distributed through the company’s award-winning catalogue; its Web site, americangirl.com; and at its proprietary retail stores, American Girl Place® and American Girl Boutique and Bistro™. The American Girl books are also available in bookstores nationwide.