50 Greatest Super Heroes In Comic Book History

26. Batgirl

(Write-up by Amanda Chrisman, Caped Crusades and Bam Smack Pow Staff Writer)

Like Batman’s other sidekick, Robin, there have been multiple people to wear the cape and cowl of Batgirl. By my estimation there have been three Batgirls, but she is no less important to Gotham City, and comic books, than Robin.

If you are familiar at all with Batman and his cast of characters, you probably know of the original Batgirl, Barbara Gordon. Daughter of Police Commissioner James Gordon, Barbara has often been written as very interested in becoming a police officer, but her father does not want that life for her and refuses to allow her on the force. As such, Barbara turns to vigilantism to satisfy her desire to fight crime and better the city she calls home.

Barbara may have been the first, but the identity of the woman behind the mask isn’t really as important as what she represents. Batgirl has been a very popular super hero for much of her existence. As Batman’s female counterpart and sidekick, she shows all of us that we can be heroes too, and that comics aren’t just for boys.

Fighting crime is no easy task for anyone, especially in Gotham, but Batgirl has always made it look both thrilling and rewarding. Batgirl, like all the women on this list,  is a very important hero, and an example to girls everywhere. She is just as capable as Batman and Robin at both solving and fighting crime. Never portrayed as anything less than an equal to the Dynamic Duo, this young woman has earned Batman’s respect just as Robin has. Winning the trust of a hero like Batman is a pretty special accomplishment for this equally special woman.

For more Batgirl news, rumors and opinion, visit Caped Crusades.

Next: No. 25: Just a guy with a bow among legends, gods and monsters