Launch of the original 'Watchmen' comic book limited series written by Alan Moore, illustrated by Dave Gibbons, published by DC Comics, marking a pivotal moment in graphic novel history.
Publication of the collected edition of the 'Watchmen' limited series, making the complete story accessible to a wider audience and cementing its cultural impact.
The collected edition of 'Watchmen' wins the Hugo Award for Best Other Form, recognizing its significance beyond traditional comic books.
Zack Snyder's film adaptation of 'Watchmen' is released, bringing the story to a global cinema audience and sparking renewed interest in the franchise.
HBO premieres the 'Watchmen' television series, a sequel to the original comic that expands the universe and introduces new themes and characters.
The murder of Edward Morgan Blake, also known as The Comedian, whose body is found, triggering an investigation.
During the 1940s, masked vigilantes begin to emerge, forming alliances and groups, including the Minutemen initially.
The Keene Act prohibits non-government sanctioned vigilante activity, forcing many heroes to retire or work undercover.
Jon Osterman, a physicist, is caught in an intrinsic field test accident and gains god-like powers, becoming Dr. Manhattan.
Ozymandias fakes an alien attack to unite the world's superpowers and prevent nuclear war by killing millions of people.
Government crackdowns intensify on vigilantes, increasing tension between masked heroes and the state.
Prior to his death, Rorschach mails his journal to a newspaper reporter, intending to reveal the truth behind recent events.
Rorschach is killed by Dr. Manhattan to maintain the secret of Ozymandias' plan and preserve peace.
