I've never heard of Rachel Dawes? Did DC created her recently (just a few years ago)?

Rachel dawes was indeed created for the Batman Begins film, im not sure whether she has been in any of the comics as im not a reader of them

Well, this is certainly interesting since I haven't seen or heard a DC or Marvel movie that feature an original character.

Yea, she just kinda showed up for no apparent reason. wierd.

but I am glad they switched actors for The Dark Knight...I'm not crazy about Katie Homes...she looks like a 12 yr old.