Linus Van Pelt inspired the term "security blanket" with his classic pose. He is the intellectual of the gang, and flabbergasts his friends with his philosophical revelations and solutions to problems. He suffers abuse from his big sister, Lucy, and the unwanted attentions of Charlie Brown's little sister, Sally. He is a paradox: despite his age, he can put life into perspective while sucking his thumb. He knows the true meaning of Christmas while continuing to believe in the Great Pumpkin.

September 19, 1952
Linus' debut on Peanuts.

June 1, 1954
The first time Linus appears with his security blanket.

May 31, 1955
Linus gets his blanket washed for the first time.

October 14, 1957
Linus tries to give up his blanket.

March 21, 1960
The first time Linus mentions his blanket-hating grandmother.

January 27, 1977
Sally first calls Linus her "Sweet Babboo."