The origin of this superhero dates back to the 1800s. It was not until the 1930s that a big boom of superhero popularity had taken off. That was a great time for superhero genre, marking the debut of Superman and Batman. But there was a superhero before Superman?
Doctor Occult
He was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the men who gave the world Superman. Doctor Occult debuted in 1935s New Fun Comics, Issue 6. He possessed the power of hypnosis, illusion casting and telekinesis. Even though he is not well-known, he is deserving of credit.
Take a look at some of the original DC superheroes that debuted soon after Doctor Occult.
1. Superman
Superman has become a cultural icon. He represents justice, moral integrity, strength and symbolizes what people strive to be.
The Man of Steel has been a template for many superheroes. Without Superman there would have been no Batman, Wonder Woman, Justice League, or even Fantastic Four.
2. Zatara
He made a first appearance in the same issue as Superman, Giovanni “John” and Zatara is a magician.
Zatara has ties to the Wayne family. Following deaths of Thomas and Martha Wayne, Zatara fled Gotham and blamed himself for the murders.
3. Crimson Avenger
As Lee Walter Travis, the Crimson Avenger made his appearance in 1938’s DC, Issue 20. He uses wits, fists, gadgets and stealth to fight. He teamed up with Justice League Unlimited and All-Star Squadron.
4. Batman
He made his debut in Detective Comics Issue 27 in 1939 and has become the most iconic and influential characters created. He is just a regular human being who has the knowledge and training to do what he does.
5. The Sandman
His origins remain dubious and many believe he debuted in Adventure Comics, Issue 40, while others say that he appeared in World’s Fair Comics, Issue 40.
Sandman is a co-founder of the Justice Society of America.
6. The Flash
While many know Barry Allen as the first Scarlet Speedster, it was Jay Garrick. Making his first appearance in Flash Comics, Issue 1 in 1940, he has become popular.
