Kid Flash (Bart Allen)
From a chaotic time-traveling imp to the heroic heart of the Speed Force.
Bart Allen is a time-displaced speedster from the 30th century who became the third hero to wield the mantle of Kid Flash. Originally known as Impulse, he was sent back in time by his grandfather, Professor Martin Stein, and raised by Wally West and Linda Park. His journey is defined by a struggle between his hyperactive nature and the heavy responsibility of being a speedster, eventually maturing into a hero capable of surpassing even the Flash himself.
Quick Facts
- Real name
- Bart Allen
- Also known as
- Impulse
- Kid Flash (III)
- The Flash
- Affiliation
- Teen Titans
- Young Justice
- Justice League
- Base of operations
- Central City; Jump City
- Origin
- Future Time Traveler (30th Century)
- Status
- Active
Lore & Background
Bart's evolution was marked by tragedy and redemption. After the death of Wally West during the 'Infinite Crisis' event, Bart stepped up to become Kid Flash, forcing himself to mature rapidly to honor his mentor's legacy. This period saw him join the Teen Titans as a leader and eventually taking up the mantle of The Flash after Wally's return was complicated by the Speed Force's instability. His story is one of growing from an impulsive child into a man who understands that speed is not just about running fast, but about being there for others when they need you most.
Reader's Guide
Bart Allen first appeared in The Flash comics during the 1990s, created by writers Mark Waid and Pat Mills along with artist Scott Kolins. Originally introduced as a time-traveling teenager named Impulse, his character was designed to represent the chaotic energy of youth within the speedster legacy. Over the years, Bart's role shifted significantly. Following the death of Wally West in Infinite Crisis, Bart matured into Kid Flash, taking on a more serious tone and leadership roles within the Teen Titans. His journey continued through various crises where he eventually became The Flash himself after Wally was seemingly lost to the Speed Force. Continuity changes have seen Bart's timeline reset multiple times, but his core identity remains consistent: a future hero learning from the past. In recent storylines, he has been reintegrated into the main continuity as a vital member of the Justice League and Young Justice, proving that his unique connection to time is essential for the Flash family.
Did You Know?
- Bart Allen was originally created to be the grandson of Wally West's future self, though later retcons clarified he is actually the son of Don and Dawn Allen from the 30th century.
- He possesses a unique ability to manipulate time and travel through it more freely than other speedsters due to his origin in the future.
- Bart was the first speedster to be able to run backwards through time without needing external technology or specific conditions.
More in History & Legacy
Elsewhere in The Flash
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced