Part 1

The first part of Superheroes Decoded will concentrate on "the making of the iconic American superhero."

From the creation of Superman, Batman, Captain America, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man and beyond, these all-American legends have endured through decades of war, triumph and scandal, constantly evolving to reflect the country's changing values in a tumultuous world. From World War II and Vietnam to Watergate and the tragedy of 9/11, these mythic heroes embody America's deepest fears and greatest aspirations.