Who was the first comic book character to have superhuman abilities?

There's no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on how you define "superhuman abilities" and "comic book character." Here's a breakdown of potential contenders:

Early Contenders:

* Mandrake the Magician (1934): While not technically superhuman, Mandrake possessed mystical powers and could perform feats of incredible strength and illusion.

* The Phantom (1936): Similar to Mandrake, The Phantom relied on skills, gadgets, and knowledge to appear superhuman.

* Superman (1938): This is the most widely recognized answer. Superman's Kryptonian origins gave him truly superhuman powers, setting a precedent for the superhero genre.

Arguments for Other Characters:

* The Shadow (1931): While primarily known for his detective skills, The Shadow's abilities were attributed to hypnotic suggestion and a mastery of martial arts, which could be argued as superhuman.

* Doc Savage (1933): A pulp fiction hero, Doc Savage possessed superhuman strength and intelligence, along with advanced scientific knowledge and a unique blend of skills.

Conclusion:

While Superman is the most recognized answer, the question remains open to interpretation. Ultimately, it depends on what criteria you prioritize when defining "superhuman abilities" and "comic book character."