The moral world of Superman and the American war in Vietnam by Ian Gordon (Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics, 2015)
Superman is an iconic, heroic character known for standing for American principles. And in Superman #216 (1969), Superman joined the controversial Vietnam War (a first for the alleged hero) in response to servicemen's letters. From the peer-reviewed Journal of Graphic Novels and Comics, Ian Gordon explores this story and the changing times, which led to Superman's world expanding beyond black-and-white morals, as well as DC Comics starting to focus on more mature audiences. Comic-book fans, writers, and American-historians will appreciate the history behind this story and the transition this led to.
Superman by Michael Eury and Peter Sanderson (Encyclopedia Brittanica, inc., 2018)
From the reliable database of Encyclopedia Brittanica, Michael Eury (editor of BACK ISSUE magazine) and Peter Sanderson (author of Marvel Universe and X-Men: The Ultimate Guide) offer a concise, yet informative summarization of Superman's character. They talk about his story and the various ways it has been revamped and rebooted, transitioning throughout the "Ages" (Golden Age, Silver Age, etc.). Comic-book enthusiasts and fans of pop-culture will get a very stimulating real-world history lesson about the development of Superman over the years.
Superman Breaks a Commandment. by Darren Franich (Entertainment Weekly, 2013)
From the popular magazine Entertainment Weekly, TV critic Darren Franich examines the movie "Man of Steel" (featuring Henry Cavill as Superman). Most fans of the comics and TV shows know that Superman has a particular rule as a hero: no killing. However, there is a shocking moment in this film where Superman does the relatively-unthinkable. This controversial scene is the focus of the article. This is a topic of discussion that will be remembered and carried on by pop-culture fans for years to come.
Superman raises landmine awareness (UNICEF, 1996)
On October 21, 1996, Superman: Deadly Legacy was launched. It was a comic book created by DC Comics in collaboration with UNICEF to promote landmine awareness in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing especially the higher risks to children's safety. While comic fans might find this interesting, American-historians will certainly be intrigued by this article and the impact this hero has had, not only on American-culture, but to the benefit of the world.