Who are some of the earliest female characters in comic books, and what roles did they typically play?

Some of the earliest female comic book characters include Miss America (1941), Wonder Woman (1941), and Golden Age heroines like Golden Girl. They often filled supporting roles, portraying damsels in distress, romantic interests, or characters needing rescue by male superheroes. However, they also demonstrated courage and resourcefulness, showcasing proto-feminist ideals within the constraints of the era.