"The Phantom" is a fictional superhero created by Lee Falk in 1936. He is known as the "Ghost Who Walks" and operates in the fictional African country of Bangalla. The character wears a distinctive purple costume and a mask, symbolizing his role as a protector of justice. He fights against various villains and criminal organizations, often with the help of his loyal animal companions and allies. The Phantom's backstory involves a lineage of heroes, as he is the 21st in a line of men who have taken on the mantle. His adventures are depicted in comic strips, comic books, and films, making him one of the earliest superheroes in popular culture. The character has influenced many other superheroes, including Batman and Spider-Man.