Manga is a form of Japanese comic books and graphic novels that has become increasingly popular in the West. It is a unique art form that has been around for centuries, and its history is as fascinating as its stories. Manga originated in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). During this time, woodblock prints were used to illustrate stories, and these prints were known as “ukiyo-e”.
These prints were often used to tell stories about everyday life, and they were very popular with the public. In the late 19th century, manga began to take shape as a distinct art form. The first manga magazine was published in 1874, and it featured illustrations of everyday life. This magazine was called “Kokkei Shimbun”, and it was the first of its kind.
The popularity of manga continued to grow throughout the 20th century. In the 1950s, Osamu Tezuka created the first full-length manga series, “Astro Boy”. This series was a huge success, and it helped to popularize manga in Japan and around the world. In the 1960s, manga began to be exported to other countries.
This led to an increase in popularity in the West, and manga began to be translated into English and other languages. By the 1980s, manga had become a global phenomenon. Today, manga is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in Japan and around the world. It has become an integral part of Japanese culture, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for many artists.
Manga has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the Edo period. It has evolved into a unique art form that is beloved by millions of people around the world. Its history is as fascinating as its stories, and it is sure to continue to captivate readers for years to come.
