Batwoman Owes Existence to the Biggest Controversy in Comics History
Fan-favorite vigilante Batwoman may have been inspired by Batman, but the character may not have existed at all if it wasn't for one of the most notable controversies in comic book history.
The adventures of Batman undeniably made for some of the most in-demand comic books in the Golden Age. Not too long after the Dark Knight's debut his sidekick Robin was added into the mix, only increasing the hero's popularity, especially among younger readers. However, the attention Batman comics received from younger generations was touched on in psychiatrist Fredric Wertham's controversial book, Seduction of the Innocent. Wertham accused Batman and Robin of being used as subtext for gay relationships and attempting to influence children. Shortly after Wertham's book was published, DC introduced Batwoman Kathy Kane, in an attempt to dissuade the rumors circulating Batman. Though the controversy died down, Seduction of the Innocent helped usher in a new expansion of the Bat-Family.
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Kathy Kane made a number of appearances throughout the 60s and 70s before disappearing altogether after Crisis on Infinite Earths. However, several decades after Kathy's last appearance, a new version of the character Created by Greg Rucka, Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Mark Waid, and Alex Ross, debuted in DC’s event comic, 52. This new version, known as Kate Kane, was a much more fleshed out take on the character. While the Golden Age Batwoman used more gimmicky gadgets such as a «utility purse», this new version of Batwoman was much more realistic and used weapons similar to any other serious vigilante. Not distinctly a Bat-Family member, Kane was inspired by Batman's heroism and
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