Superman’s 85th Anniversary

By Paul Maglietta

Photos courtesy of DC Comics

On April 18th, 1938 the world of fantasy changed forever with the release of Actions Comics number one. The cover depicted a man in a bright blue suit with an S on his chest holding a car over his head, and for the first time ever the world was introduced to Superman. Now 85 years later Superman is still a cultural sensation with movies, television, comic series, and more all keep the Man of Steel relevant to the modern audience. Created by Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel the last son of Krypton has been through many changes over the years from being only faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound to being able to sneeze away galaxies, hold black holes in his hand, and even carry infinity (yes that actually happened). So let us now take a look at what makes Superman one of the greatest heroes of all time.

So let’s start with arguably the most iconic part of Superman, his look. The S emblem has gone through a lot of changes over the years. In some versions it is a Kryptonian symbol, others it is a Native American one, and it even started off as just standing for Superman. Today it is still one of the most iconic symbols in the world and has been on shirts, tattoos, merchandise
, and various forms of media. The red and blue color scheme has also remained consistent, symbolizing strength, patriotism, and hope. Superman's costume has become instantly recognizable, and it has been replicated and adapted countless times in different mediums.

But Superman's impact goes far beyond his appearance. One of the defining characteristics of the Man of Steel is his unwavering moral compass. Superman is often portrayed as the epitome of truth, justice, and the American way. He stands as a symbol of hope and inspiration, fighting for the downtrodden and protecting the innocent. His commitment to doing what is right, even when faced with difficult choices, has solidified his position as a timeless hero.

Throughout his 85-year history, Superman has faced countless adversaries, ranging from the cunning Lex Luthor to the otherworldly threat of Doomsday. These challenges have tested not only his physical abilities but also his resilience and determination. Despite the overwhelming odds, Superman never gives up and continues to fight for what he believes in. His unwavering resolve in the face of adversity has made him an iconic figure in the superhero genre.

Superman's appeal also lies in his relatability. Despite his extraordinary powers, he often struggles with his dual identity as Clark Kent, a mild-mannered reporter. This duality allows readers and viewers to connect with the character on a deeper level, as they witness his internal conflicts and the challenges he faces in maintaining a balance between his personal and heroic life.

Furthermore, Superman's story serves as a metaphor for hope and the potential for greatness within all individuals. His humble origins on the farm in Smallville and his journey to become Earth's greatest hero inspire us to believe in our own capacity for growth and change. Superman reminds us that even the most ordinary among us can rise to extraordinary heights and make a positive impact on the world.

As Superman celebrates his 85th anniversary, his legacy endures. He continues to inspire new generations of fans through various forms of media, from comic books to blockbuster films. The symbol of Superman transcends time, representing the enduring power of hope, strength, and heroism.

Superman's 85 years of existence have solidified his status as one of the greatest superheroes of all time. From his iconic look to his unwavering moral compass, he embodies the qualities that make a hero timeless. As we reflect on his enduring legacy, let us celebrate the Man of Steel and the inspiration he has provided to countless individuals around the world. Happy 85th anniversary, Superman!