Created in 1946

1946 was a quiet year for superhero debuts, as the comic industry shifted from wartime patriotism to postwar uncertainty. Only one notable character created in 1946 is entering the public domain — but he’s a fascinating relic of the era’s changing tastes. This page lists the 1946 creations entering the U.S. public domain in 2042 — and any already there.

Entering the Public Domain in 2042 (Created in 1946)

Crazy Quilt
Crazy Quilt, created by Jack Kirby, debuted in Boy Commandos #15 in May 1946. Crazy Quilt will enter the public domain on January 1, 2042.

The Blonde Phantom
The Blonde Phantom (Louise Grant Mason), created by Stan Lee and Syd Shores, debuted in All Select Comics #11 in Fall 1946. The Blonde Phantom will enter the public domain on January 1, 2042.

Already in the Public Domain (Created in 1946)

The Octopus
The Octopus, created by Will Eisner, debuted in The Spirit comic strip on July 14, 1946. The Octopus is in the public domain.

1946: Context & Fun Facts

• Postwar fatigue hit comics hard.
  With WWII over, readers drifted toward romance, humor, and crime comics. Superheroes were suddenly out of fashion, which explains why 1946 produced so few costumed icons.
• Timely Goes After A Largely Ignored Audience.
  The Blonde Phantom was Timely’s answer to postwar shifting demographics — a glamorous secretary-turned-masked adventurer created specifically to appeal to the growing number of female readers left over from the war years.
• DC was consolidating — and conserving.
  Publishers were tightening belts after the war. Rather than creating waves of new heroes, they leaned on existing brands. Crazy Quilt is one of the very few exceptions in this transitional year.