Superman's origin story, debuting in Action Comics in 1938, mirrors the immigrant narrative of the early 20th century. As the last survivor of a dying planet, the infant Kal-El represents the hope and resilience found in America's open doors during that era. Raised as Clark Kent by a rural family, he embodies the positive ideals of American society while also reflecting the dual immigrant experience: fleeing his home and adapting to a new one. This narrative is significantly influenced by the Jewish American creators who shaped the comic book industry during its formative years.
This is the story of Superman: one of the most recognizable characters in history, who first reached audiences in the pages of Action Comics in 1938 - what many fans consider the most important single comic in history.
Taken in and raised by a rural family under the name Clark Kent, the baby was imbued with the best qualities of America. But, like all immigrant stories, Kent's is a two-parter.
That origin story reflects the heritage of Superman's creators: two of the many Jewish American writers and artists who ushered in the Golden Age of comic books.
The American comics industry was largely started by the children of Jewish immigrants. Like most publishing in the early 20th century, it was centered in New York City.
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