Let’s dive deep into the origins of anime and uncover how it became the global phenomenon it is now.

To understand where anime originated, we have to look at both Western and Japanese influences. In the early 1900s, Japanese artists were exposed to Western animation, particularly from the United States and France. The works of pioneers like Walt Disney and Émile Cohl played a significant role in shaping Japan’s approach to animated storytelling.

However, Japan already had a rich artistic tradition that set the stage for anime’s distinct style. Traditional ukiyo-e woodblock prints and emakimono (painted handscrolls) were early forms of sequential art that influenced how Japanese artists told visual stories.

The first known Japanese animation was Namakura Gatana (1917) by Jun’ichi Kōuchi, a short film about a foolish samurai. Around the same time, Seitaro Kitayama and Ōten Shimokawa were also creating early anime films.

These first attempts at animation were crude and hand-drawn, but they laid the foundation for what was to come. Unlike Disney’s smooth animation style, Japan focused on limited animation techniques, which later became a signature of anime.

During World War II, the Japanese government used animation for propaganda. Films like Momotarō: Umi no Shinpei (1945) were produced to boost national morale. Though heavily political, these films helped Japan develop its animation industry.

After the war, one man revolutionized anime forever—Osamu Tezuka. Often called the “God of Manga,” Tezuka took inspiration from Disney’s animation but adapted it into a uniquely Japanese style.

In 1963, his studio, Mushi Production, released Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atom), the first-ever TV anime series. It introduced the iconic large-eyed character designs that anime is famous for today. Tezuka’s work defined the industry and inspired generations of creators.

With Astro Boy’s success, more studios entered the industry. The 1970s saw the rise of series like Lupin III, Mazinger Z, and Space Battleship Yamato. This era also marked the beginning of the mecha (giant robot) genre, which remains popular today.

The 1980s brought an explosion of creativity. Studios like Studio Ghibli, Sunrise, and Gainax emerged, producing classics like Akira (1988), Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), and Mobile Suit Gundam (1979-80s).

This decade was crucial because it introduced anime to international audiences. Films like Akira and Ghost in the Shell (1995) were major influences on Western pop culture.

The shift to digital animation in the 2000s allowed studios to create anime more efficiently. This era gave rise to massively popular series like Naruto, One Piece, and Attack on Titan.

Streaming services like Crunchyroll and Netflix further expanded anime’s reach, making it a global entertainment powerhouse.

Anime’s unique aesthetics set it apart from Western cartoons. Large expressive eyes, exaggerated emotions, and detailed backgrounds are hallmarks of the medium.

Unlike many Western animations that cater primarily to children, anime explores deep themes ranging from philosophy to existentialism (Neon Genesis Evangelion), social issues (Death Note), and romance (Your Name).

Japanese culture plays a massive role in shaping anime. Traditional folklore, Shinto beliefs, and historical events often serve as inspiration for stories.

Now that you know where anime came from, it’s clear that anime is more than just cartoons—it’s an evolving art form with deep roots in both Japanese tradition and global influences.

With new animation technologies and increasing international collaboration, anime will only continue to grow and captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to anime, its rich history proves that its journey is far from over.

What do you think the future of anime will look like?