An interesting and well-received definition of a superhero comes from Cambridge Dictionary.
Based on Cambridge researchers, a superhero is defined as a fictional character with superpowers.
Some of the superpowers allow a hero to have superhuman abilities, such as flying, or superhuman strength.
Coupled with their ambition, superheroes use their powers to combat the evil forces.
Stan Lee, Marvel Comics, DC Comics and numerous screenings of American comics – Batman, Superman, Spider-man, Thor, X-Men, Iron Man, etc., are the first things that come to mind when thinking of superheroes.
However, have you ever wondered who was the first one amongst them all?
By Unknown – Comic Book Plus, Public Domain.
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Who Was Actually The First Superhero Ever?
Most scholars think that Superman was the first superhero in comic books.
Equally, it is because of his superpowers. He has X-ray vision and flying ability, along with the costume, fighting for justice and helping people.
DC Comics introduced Superman – “The Man of Steel” in Action Comics #1 in 1938.
However, according to most sources, the first superhero ever was The Phantom.
Phantom – The First Superhero Who Wore Tights
The Phantom is officially the first superhero ever and is consequently the first costumed fiction character ever. He is also known as “The Ghost Who Walks”.
He debuted in his own newspaper comic strip on February 17, 1936. Lee Falk created this character.
He does not possess superpowers but is the first who wears a tight costume and a mask with no visible pupils.
What Was The First Superheroes Destiny?
The Second World War also left the consequences on the world of comic books too.
Spiderman, Batman and Wonder Woman were the only superheroes who had their own titles.
In 1950s DC published revised versions of their 1940s superhero characters such as The Flash and Green Lantern.
Marvel Comics followed introducing characters such as Spider-Man, Thor, the Fantastic Four, Hulk, the X-Men, and Iron Man.
Given the time context, superhero comics became much more political and dealt with social issues.
Who Was The First Female Superhero?
As far as the comics are concerned, two female superheroes could be the first one. In February 1940, Jungle Comics #2 introduced Fantomah.
Correspondingly, Fletcher Hanks created the first female superhero with superhuman powers.
Woman in Red, creation by Richard Hughes and George Mandel for Thrilling Comics #2 was the first super-heroine who wore a mask and a costume.
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