Osamu Tezuka: The God of Manga Early Life and Influences Born on November 3, 1928, in Osaka Prefecture, Japan, as 手塚 治 (Tezuka Osamu). His family was well-educated; his father worked in management, and ancestors included lawyers and doctors. Early exposure to art: His mother frequently took him to the Takarazuka Grand Theater, influencing his later costume designs and visual style. Walt Disney was a major formative influence, particularly films like *Bambi*, which he watched over 80 times. He also drew inspiration from Chinese animation, specifically *Princess Iron Fan*. Artisti…