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Wonder Woman: The Evolution of an American Icon from 1942 to 1986

Jackson Blair

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Published in Wonder Woman (1942 1986) #212 Claire Pearcy

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Wonder Woman has been a beloved American icon for over 80 years. From her humble beginnings in 1942 to her iconic television series in the 1970s, Wonder Woman has evolved significantly over the years. This article traces the evolution of Wonder Woman from her creation in 1942 to her reboot in 1986, exploring the ways in which she has both reflected and shaped American culture.

Wonder Woman (1942-1986) #212

by Claire Pearcy

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	72730 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	21 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

Creation and Early History (1942-1950s)

Wonder Woman was created by William Moulton Marston, a psychologist and inventor, in 1942. Marston intended Wonder Woman to be a feminist icon, a strong and independent woman who could inspire women and girls. Wonder Woman first appeared in All Star Comics #8 in December 1941, and her own solo title, Wonder Woman, debuted in the summer of 1942.

Wonder Woman's early adventures were set on Paradise Island, a hidden island inhabited by a race of warrior women known as the Amazons. Wonder Woman, whose real name is Diana Prince, was trained by the Amazons to be a skilled fighter and diplomat. She left Paradise Island to travel to the outside world and fight for justice and equality.

Wonder Woman quickly became a popular character, and her comic book series was one of the best-selling titles of the 1940s and 1950s. She was also a popular character on the radio, and she appeared in several films and television shows during this time.

The Golden Age of Wonder Woman (1960s-1970s)

The 1960s and 1970s were a golden age for Wonder Woman. In 1967, she was cast as the lead role in the popular television series Wonder Woman, which ran for three seasons. The television series helped to introduce Wonder Woman to a new generation of fans, and it cemented her status as an American icon.

During this time, Wonder Woman's comic book series also underwent some major changes. In 1968, she was given a new costume and a new origin story. Her new costume was more revealing and emphasized her sexuality, and her new origin story made her the daughter of Zeus, the king of the gods.

These changes were controversial at the time, but they helped to make Wonder Woman more popular than ever. She became a symbol of female empowerment and sexual liberation, and she inspired a generation of women and girls.

The Bronze Age of Wonder Woman (1980s-1990s)

The 1980s and 1990s were a more challenging time for Wonder Woman. The popularity of her television series waned, and her comic book sales declined. In 1986, DC Comics decided to reboot Wonder Woman's comic book series in an attempt to revive her popularity.

The reboot was written by George Pérez, and it gave Wonder Woman a new origin story and a new costume. Her new origin story made her the daughter of Hippolyta, the queen of the Amazons, and Zeus, the king of the gods. Her new costume was more modest and covered her up more than her previous costume.

The reboot was controversial at the time, but it ultimately helped to revive Wonder Woman's popularity. She became a more complex and nuanced character, and her new origin story made her more relatable to readers.

Wonder Woman has been a beloved American icon for over 80 years. She has evolved significantly over the years, but she has always remained a symbol of female empowerment and strength.

Wonder Woman has inspired generations of women and girls, and she continues to be an important role model for young people today. She is a reminder that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.