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When Was the First Comic Book Written?

Thursday, March 26, 2009
Related Tags: comics | underground | 68-page | appeared | sloper
 

Instructions

American Comics

  • Step 1:
    American comic books first officially appeared in 1934, with the publication of a 68-page book entitled "Famous Funnies #1." It was an instant success.

The Golden Age

  • Step 1:
    The Golden Age of American comics officially began in 1938, with the publication of "Action Comics #1." The book featured the first appearance of Superman.

Japanese Comics

  • Step 1:
    Japanese comics, or "manga," stretch back earlier than their American cousins. They first appeared as small booklets printed with woodblocks in the late 18th century, depicting famous legends and folk tales of Japan.

European Comics

  • Step 1:
    Though not as prevalent as American or Japanese comics, European comics have a notable history as well. British comics first appeared in 1884 with the publication of "Ally Sloper's Half Holiday," while French and Italian comics began to appear at about the same time.

Underground Comics

  • Step 1:
    Underground comic books flourished throughout the 20th century, fostered by self-publishing enterprises and containing racy or experimental subject matter. The first "official" underground comic is considered "Zap Comix #1," published by the legendary Robert Crumb in 1968.

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