Anime originates from Japan, and it literally just means “animation” in Japanese. But the style we recognize today didn’t appear overnight—it evolved over more than a century.

Early roots (1900s–1940s)

Japan started experimenting with animation in the early 1900s, inspired by Western animated films coming from Europe and the United States. One of the earliest known Japanese animations dates back to around 1917, when short experimental films were hand-drawn and shown in theaters.

During this period, animation was still very basic—short clips, simple movements, and often used for propaganda during wartime.

Post-war development (1950s–1960s)

This is where anime really starts taking shape.

After World War II, Japan’s entertainment industry rebuilt itself, and animation became more structured and storytelling-focused. A huge turning point came with Osamu Tezuka, often called the “God of Manga.” He introduced a more cinematic style of storytelling in animation, with expressive characters and dynamic camera-like scenes.

One of the biggest milestones was Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atom) in the 1960s, which helped define the modern anime look and made serialized TV animation popular in Japan.

Growth into global culture (1970s–1990s)

Anime expanded into different genres—mecha, fantasy, sports, romance, sci-fi. Studios refined distinct visual styles: large expressive eyes, stylized hair, emotional exaggeration, and detailed world-building.

By the 1980s and 1990s, anime started spreading internationally with shows like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, and Pokémon, turning it into a global phenomenon instead of just a Japanese media style.

Modern anime (2000s–today)

Today, anime is a massive global industry covering everything from TV series and films to streaming exclusives. It’s no longer just a style—it’s a full storytelling medium influencing games, Hollywood films, fashion, and internet culture.