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Superman comic book
Superman comic book

Superman comic book

Object number2000.048.0177
DateJuly 1964
ClassificationsNewspapers & Magazines
Creator DC Comics, Inc.
ObjectComic book
Credit LineJeanne Reilly Collection/The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
MediumPaper
Dimensions10 1/4 x 7 in. (26 x 17.8 cm)
Collections
DescriptionDC Comics Superman comic book, issue #170, July 1964, that includes a story entitled "Superman's Mission for President Kennedy." The storyline involved President Kennedy's Youth Physical Fitness Program. Developed in consultation with the Kennedy White House, this story was to have been published as issue #168, but following the assassination, it was put on hold and printed as a memorial tribute to the late president in July 1964. This image is not available online larger than a thumbnail to protect the copyright of its creator(s). For a more detailed examination of this item, please schedule an appointment in the Museum’s Reading Room.
Curatorial Commentary

John F. Kennedy appeared as a character in Superman comics a total of three times. His third and final appearance, ultimately published in issue #170 in July 1964, was actually developed in 1963 in close cooperation with the Kennedy White House. 

The story, "Superman's Mission for President Kennedy," was written by E. Nelson Bridwell and intended to promote President Kennedy's youth physical fitness program.  Originally scheduled for publication in issue #168, National Periodical Publications (DC Comics) canceled the issue following the assassination.  However, President Johnson asked that it be published in memory of the late president, and the original story was repackaged with a memorial splash page in which Superman flies over the U.S. Capitol while a wispy image of John F. Kennedy smiles in the sky. Notice, however, that there is no reference to President Kennedy on the cover of this comic book.  The cover art, drawn by Curt Swan, depicts a scene from the companion story in this comic book, "If Lex Luthor Were Superman's Father!" 

For many years, comic books featured two or three separate, unrelated adventures in the same issue.  This comic book was featured in the Museum's exhibit, True Colors, in 2005 and was part of a popular culture spotlight on the WFAA-TV program, Good Morning Texas, in 2011. - Stephen Fagin, Curator