Mutant
A mutant is any person born with distinctive traits ("mutations") not inherent to their species. Most often, the word refers particularly to mutated humans, and more particularly to those with mutations that include superpowers. People who acquire powers by other means are called mutates. Given the sudden rise of mutants in the mid-20th century, it is generally believed that their mutations were caused by their parents' exposure to radioactivity at the start of the nuclear age.[1]
In the United States, mutants typically develop their powers in adolescence, and are often shunned and belittled for being different—the telekinetic Tad Carter being one example.[2] In the 1960s, mutants began to make themselves known on the world stage, seeking survival and recognition. Magneto, a mutant with the power of magnetic manipulation, viewed mutants as a progression beyond the human race at large, dubbing them homo superior. His goal was to create a new order with mutants in charge, fighting radically against the human zeitgeist. Conversely, Professor X formed a secretive "school" for young mutants, quietly training a team called the X-Men to protect humanity from such malevolent mutant threats. The battle between these two sides of mutanthood is ongoing.[1]
See also
- Witchbreed, the term used for mutants in Earth-311