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[[File:Peanuts title.png|thumb]]
'''Peanuts''' is a globally acclaimed [[comic strip]] created by American cartoonist [[Charles M. Schulz]]. First published on October 2, 1950, it ran for nearly 50 years, concluding on February 13, 2000, the day after Schulz's death. Featuring a cast of iconic characters, including [[Charlie Brown]], [[Snoopy]], [[Lucy]], and [[Linus]], ''Peanuts'' is celebrated for its wit, philosophical insights, and timeless humor.

== History and Development ==

=== '''Origins''' ===
Charles M. Schulz drew inspiration for ''Peanuts'' from his earlier comic feature, ''Li'l Folks'', published in the ''St. Paul Pioneer Press''. United Feature Syndicate picked up the concept, renaming it ''Peanuts''—a title Schulz reportedly disliked, finding it nonsensical and unrelated to the strip’s content.

=== '''Evolution''' ===
''Peanuts'' debuted in seven newspapers and quickly gained popularity. By the 1960s, it had become a cultural phenomenon, appearing in thousands of publications worldwide and being translated into multiple languages.

== Characters ==
The comic strip is known for its small but memorable cast of characters:

* '''[[Charlie Brown]]''': The lovable, unlucky everyman whose persistent optimism contrasts with his frequent failures.
* '''[[Snoopy]]''': Charlie Brown’s imaginative beagle, who often escapes into his fantasies as a World War I Flying Ace or a bestselling novelist.
* '''[[Lucy Van Pelt]]''': The bossy, self-assured friend who runs a "psychiatric help" booth and frequently belittles Charlie Brown.
* '''[[Linus Van Pelt]]''': Lucy’s younger brother, known for his wisdom and insecurities, including his attachment to a security blanket.
* '''[[Schroeder]]''': A Beethoven-loving pianist who is often indifferent to Lucy’s romantic advances.
* '''[[Peppermint Patty]]''': A tomboyish character with a casual attitude and a knack for sports.
* '''[[Woodstock]]''': Snoopy’s small, bird companion whose chirps are understood by the other characters.

== Themes and Style ==
''Peanuts'' is renowned for blending humor with deeper themes, such as unrequited love, existential despair, and the complexities of childhood. The strip’s minimalist art style, characterized by clean lines and simple expressions, allowed the focus to remain on the dialogue and characters' emotional depth.

Schulz often infused the comic with personal experiences, creating a poignant, relatable tone. Its unique blend of humor and melancholy set it apart from other comic strips.

== Cultural Impact ==

=== '''Merchandising and Media Adaptations''' ===
''Peanuts'' extended far beyond the newspaper pages. The franchise spawned:

* '''Television Specials''': Classics like ''A Charlie Brown Christmas'' (1965) and ''It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown''(1966) are holiday staples.
* '''Movies''': Including ''A Boy Named Charlie Brown'' (1969) and ''The Peanuts Movie'' (2015).
* '''Merchandise''': From books and toys to apparel, ''Peanuts'' became a merchandising juggernaut.

== '''Legacy''' ==
The strip redefined the comic art form, influencing generations of cartoonists. Schulz received numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a Congressional Gold Medal posthumously.

''Peanuts'' remains one of the most influential and beloved comic strips in history. Its timeless themes and endearing characters continue to resonate with readers of all ages, ensuring its legacy as a cornerstone of modern pop culture.
[[Category:Comic Strip]]
[[Category:Comics]]