The Phantom is a classic adventure comic strip created by Lee Falk, which debuted in newspapers on February 17, 1936. It tells the story of a masked crime-fighter who operates from the fictional African country of Bangalla, passing his mantle from father to son across generations, leading people to believe he is an immortal 'Ghost Who Walks.' The character is notable for being one of the first superheroes to wear a skintight costume, predating many of the more famous comic book heroes.
The strip follows the 21st Phantom, Kit Walker, as he fights piracy, crime, and injustice with his physical strength, intelligence, and a fearsome reputation. He is aided by his wolf, Devil, and his horse, Hero. The comic is a long-running staple of adventure storytelling, blending jungle action with globe-trotting intrigue and a touch of the supernatural.
The Phantom has become a globally recognized icon, particularly popular in countries like Australia, Sweden, and India, where the character has been featured in numerous comic books, serials, and other media beyond the original newspaper strip. His legacy as the first costumed hero with a secret identity and a lineage-based mythology has cemented his place in pop culture history.