Spider-Man first appeared in comic books in 1962, debuting in Amazing Fantasy #15. The issue was written by Stan Lee and illustrated by Steve Ditko, who created the character’s distinctive visual design and agile, expressive poses.
The story introduces Peter Parker, a teenage science enthusiast from Queens who gains spider-like abilities after being bitten by a radioactive spider. At first, Peter uses his powers for personal gain and refuses to stop a fleeing burglar. After that burglar later kills his Uncle Ben, Peter learns the lesson that great power must come with great responsibility.
A frequent mix-up concerns the date. Amazing Fantasy #15 carries an August 1962 cover date, although the issue was released earlier in the year. Spider-Man’s first ongoing solo series, The Amazing Spider-Man, began in 1963. That distinction explains why 1962 is the correct debut year, while 1963 is associated with his first regular title.