Happy 75th Birthday, Superman!

Until this day seventy-five years ago, there was no such thing as a "super-hero." Two young men, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, after years of trying and two failed versions, finally succeeded in selling their character, creating a legend in the process.

On April 18th, 1938, Action Comics #1 debuted, featuring the first appearance of Superman, The Man of Steel, The Metropolis Marvel, The Man of Tomorrow, The Last Son of Krypton, The Action Ace. He was the first-ever "super-hero," and his name and soaring popularity inspired both the term and the genre of colorfully-clad heroes and villains with amazing powers.

Just about everyone knows the story of Kal-El, sent to Earth by his parents Jor-El and Lara so as to survive the destruction of the planet Krypton. Adopted by Kansas farmers Jonathan and Martha Kent and named Clark, the child's alien cells absorbed power from Earth's yellow sun as he grew older, giving him powers far beyond those of mortal men. His red and yellow S-shield symbol is one of the most recognizable symbols in the world.

Superman's comic book exploits have continued publication for the last three quarters of a century, along with films, television series and cartoons, and countless merchandise.

 Seventy-five years later, Superman endures, waging a never-ending battle for Truth, Justice, and the American way.