Happy Birthday, Batman

Can Batman be 70?

U.S. Census Bureau Profile America for May 7, 2009

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Profile America — Thursday, May 7th. One of America’s favorite superheroes appeared for the first time this month 70 years ago — as “Detective Comics” introduced a new crime fighter — Batman. Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, the caped crusader was an immediate hit, and has entertained several generations of fans as he fights criminal forces including the Joker and Catwoman to protect Gotham City. To show his enduring popularity, the latest Batman movie “The Dark Knight,” was the biggest moneymaker last year — pulling in $533 million at box offices across the nation. Each year, movie theaters in the U.S. generate $11 billion in ticket and refreshment sales.

You can find these and more facts about America from the U.S. Census Bureau online at <www.census.gov>.

Sources: Chase’s Calendar of Events 2009, p. 243
Statistical Abstract of the United States 2009, t. 1101
http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2009edition.html
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