Uncovers how the rise of the superhero parallels America's rise as a superpower in the 20th century, evolving through the decades into a uniquely American mythology that has captured audiences across the globe.

The story of the American superhero charts the characters' rise from a fringe art form in the 1930s to the blockbuster films of today and details how they evolved to become a uniquely American modern mythology. Included are film clips, vintage comic artwork and interviews with creators, experts and fans.

For as long as humans have been around, there has been the idea of heroes, people who overcome great odds for the greater good. Today, heroes have become popular through the comics of DC and Marvel and names such as Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman; however, how did these figures of modern mythology come to be? This series investigates their origins and how they have evolved over the decades.—Tom Daly