While the term "anime" is a shortened form of the English word "animation," it specifically refers to animation produced in Japan.
The roots of Japanese animation can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the first known anime film being "Namakura Gatana" (The Dull Sword) created in 1917. However, it was in the post-World War II era that anime truly began to flourish, with the emergence of influential studios like Toei Animation and the creation of iconic works like "Astro Boy" (1963).
Since then, anime has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide with its unique art style, diverse storytelling, and captivating characters.