About Us

​

When Pleasant Rowland founded American Girl in 1986, she believed that powerful stories and aspirational characters could inspire girls to make their mark on the world—and she was right. For nearly four decades, we’ve been a trusted partner in empowering girls with confidence, courage, and character.

It all began with a trip to Colonial Williamsburg, where Pleasant’s passion for American history and her dedication to high-quality education came together. This inspired The American Girls Collection—our first line of historical dolls, books, and accessories that blended learning with play. Each character’s story celebrated resilience, kindness, and determination, helping girls connect with the past while discovering their own strengths.

Driven by a commitment to meaningful play, Pleasant expanded the brand with more books, dolls, and immersive experiences. In 1998, she realized another dream: the first American Girl Place in Chicago, a flagship retail destination where girls could step into their favorite stories, fostering creativity and confidence in a vibrant, interactive space.

As American Girl’s popularity soared, Mattel acquired the brand in 1998, ensuring its reach would grow even further. Today, guided by Pleasant’s original vision, American Girl remains one of the nation’s most beloved brands. Through courageous heroines and timeless storytelling, we’ve helped shape a generation of strong, compassionate women—a legacy we’re proud to carry forward, honoring the spirit and ingenuity of our founder, Pleasant T. Rowland.