-
Superman Is Created
America's favorite superhero, Superman, was created on April 18th, 1938. He was first seen in Action Comics #1, created by DC Comics author Jerry Siegel. People consider this the most important comic ever created because it started the superhero genre that is still popular today. In the first page, baby superman is sent to Earth from his scientist father. The next twelve pages we see him grow up and save countless women from danger. -
The United States Joins World War II
World War II began on September 1st, 1939. It started when Germany invaded Poland. On September 3rd, France and Great Britain declared war on Germany. Although the United States did not join the war until December of 1941, they provided the Allies with many military supplies and assistance. Although the war was fought in other countries, comics intertwined the events and superheroes like Superman. Seen below is Superman, Batman, and Robin selling war bonds to children. -
Superman's First Apperence in Animation
Superman first appeared in a cartoon titled "Superman" in 1941, written by Max and Dave Fleischer. This animation started his famous phrase "It's a bird! It's a plane!" and made him an even more popular superhero. It also played into the events going on in America, such as World War II. In this animation short, he is seen fighting German and Japanese spies. This is a direct linkage to the enemies that the United States were fighting at the time. -
Superman's Costume Becomes His Classic Design
Entering the Silver Age in 1945, Superman is seen in the "Silver Age Dailies" in the suit he would be wearing for many decades to come. His "classic" look is established. -
The Cold War Begins
Following WWII, the Cold War began in 1947 between the United States and the Soviet Union. Although there was no direct military action, it was fought through political and economic actions. Events during this war can be seen in many comics of the Silver Age. -
The Silver Age Begins
The Silver Age of comics was a time period from 1956 to 1970. The success of a new superhero called "The Flash" is thought to have begun this time period. In this time period, comics are seen to take real historic events, such as the Cold War, and include them in the comics. Technological advances also played a strong role in the science fiction genre of most comics. -
The Awkward Era
Superman has many different changes in the 1970s. From reading all the comics, it felt like there were too many storylines that strayed away from the main idea of Superman. In this comic, they are discussing "Super-Brat", straying away from the storyline of Superman. The Atlantic said that it was Superman's "mid-life crisis". There were stories of Supergirl and disillusionment in the comics that everyone once loved. -
First Superman Movie is Relased
The first-ever Superman movie was released on December 15th, 1978. Superman is played by Christopher Reeve and it made over $300 million dollars in box office earnings. In this movie, Superman faces challenges of everyday life like figuring out his romantic relationship with Lois Lane while also fighting evil.