His real name is Kal-El and his scientist father Jor-El sent him to Earth as an infant for his survival when their planet was about to explode. Despite many retellings of the story, the original story of Superman has been maintained in all versions. Superman made his first appearance in Action Comics #1 which was published on April 1938.
When designing his costume, Superman's creators decided to give him the ever iconic 'S' on his chest and a shorts over tights outfit that was an influence of the traditional circus strong man outfit-shorts over a suit with contrasting colors.
