When you mention Anime to anyone the first thing that they think of is usually Japan. The term Anime originated there as a term for ALL animation, not just Japanese animation, but the animation style was so specific to Japan that it became the term used to describe just Japanese animation.

Anime began at the start of the 20th century but didn't become popular in Japan until after Word War 2. It was pioneered by some of the best artists in the country and indeed the style was incredibly beautiful even if the content usually steered much more towards sex and violence than animation made in America at the same time.

As the Anime phenomenon grew in Japan the films and TV show began to make their way to other parts of the world and eventually landed here in the United States. While not exceptionally popular they did have their early hits, including Speed Racer, Marine Boy and Kimba the White Lion, all three of which were very popular here. Today some of the favorites are legend of korra, pokemon best wishes & aki sora.

In the last 20 years the production of Anime has truly exploded and the quantity of new series and shows coming out of Japan has increased significantly, along with a huge increase in their popularity in the States. The reason is that, unlike many American cartoons that are drawn rather simply and have 'family' rated story lines, Anime is darker, edgier and more lavishly produced.

With the advent of the Internet there is now a whole world of Anime that has opened up to folks over here in the United States. Series and shows that once were only able to be seen in Japan are now available for download and streaming, making a lot of Anime fans here very happy indeed.

So if you're looking for something a little different, with intense story lines and extravagant animation, you may want to check out some Anime online. But watch out, because you just might find out what many have known for a long time; it's really good stuff.

There are many anime websites online but one of the best I have come across is Anime Loves Me.