The Origins of Anime

Osuma Tezuka

The origin of anime has always had tandem with the adaptation from manga. Manga’s origins can be traced back to the 12th century when Japanese scrolls depicted comical scenes. In the 17th century, woodblock prints known as “kibyoshi” emerged, laying the foundation for modern manga. The 20th century saw manga expand to various genres, from adventure to romance, with its popularity soaring with the post-war economic boom. 

One interesting fact concerning the origin of anime in concept and its pre-adapted works is the acknowledgement of Osamu Tezuka. Often titled as the “God of Manga,” Osamu revolutionized the medium with works like “Astro Boy” and “Sailor Moon”. A secondary fact within this subtopic is the foundations laid for modern anime. This beginning in 1956, finding lasting success in 1961 with the founding of Mushi Production by Osamu Tezuka.

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