Comic Book / Comics

What Was the First Comic Book Ever?

Have you ever wondered what the first comic book ever created was? Comic books have been a popular form of entertainment for almost a century, but their origins may surprise you. Let’s take a look back in time and discover the very first comic book.

The Origin of Comic Books

Comic books have been around since the 1930s, but their roots go back much further. The earliest form of comics can be traced back to ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and medieval tapestries. These early examples used sequential art to tell stories, just like modern-day comic books.

The Yellow Kid

The first modern comic book is widely considered to be “Famous Funnies” which was published in 1933 by Eastern Color Printing. However, it was not the first publication to feature sequential art and storytelling. That honor goes to “The Yellow Kid” which was created by Richard Outcault and first appeared in newspapers in 1895.

The Yellow Kid’s Popularity

“The Yellow Kid” was a popular cartoon strip that featured a bald child wearing a yellow nightshirt. The character represented the working-class culture of New York City during that time period. The popularity of “The Yellow Kid” led to its merchandising in various forms such as toys, games, and even cigars!

How Comics Became Popular

Comic strips like “The Yellow Kid” became so popular that they were eventually compiled into books that could be sold on newsstands. These compilations were called “comic books” and proved to be incredibly successful among readers.

In Conclusion

In summary, while “Famous Funnies” is often credited as the first modern comic book, it was actually “The Yellow Kid” that paved the way for this unique form of storytelling. The sequential art and characters from these early comics have had a lasting impact on popular culture and continue to entertain readers today.