Action Comics 1938-2024: A Comprehensive History of Superman's Legendary Comic Book

Action Comics (1938-2024) #8

by Sherri Granato

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	41463 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	14 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Action Comics #1, published in June 1938, is widely regarded as the comic book that launched the superhero genre. The debut of Superman, the Man of Steel, in this issue revolutionized the comic book industry and popular culture as a whole. Over the following 86 years, Action Comics has continued to be a flagship title for DC Comics, featuring iconic stories and unforgettable characters that have shaped the DC Universe.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Action Comics' 86-year history, from its humble beginnings in 1938 to its current status as one of the most popular and enduring comic books in the world. We will explore the major storylines, characters, and creators that have made Action Comics such a beloved and influential title.

The Early Years (1938-1950)

The first issue of Action Comics was published by National Allied Publications, which would later become DC Comics. The issue featured the debut of Superman, a character created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster. Superman's origin story was told in a six-page backup feature, and the issue also included other features, such as "Tex Thompson, Western Sheriff" and "Slam Bradley, Space Detective."

Action Comics quickly became a hit, and Superman soon became one of the most popular characters in the world. In 1940, Superman got his own solo title, Superman, and Action Comics became a superhero anthology title, featuring stories starring Superman, Superboy, and other characters.

During the early years, Action Comics was known for its action-packed stories and colorful characters. The stories were often written with a sense of optimism and wonder, and they reflected the values of the American public during the Great Depression and World War II.

The Silver Age (1956-1970)

The Silver Age of Comic Books began in 1956 with the publication of Showcase #4, which featured the debut of the Flash. The Silver Age was a time of great creativity and innovation in the comic book industry, and Action Comics was no exception.

During the Silver Age, Action Comics introduced a number of new characters, including Supergirl, Brainiac, and Lex Luthor. The stories became more complex and sophisticated, and they began to explore social issues such as racism and poverty.

The Silver Age was also a time of great success for Action Comics. The title reached its peak circulation in 1962, with over 1 million copies sold per month.

The Bronze Age (1970-1985)

The Bronze Age of Comic Books began in 1970 with the publication of Green Lantern/Green Arrow #76, which featured a groundbreaking story about drug addiction. The Bronze Age was a time of change and experimentation in the comic book industry, and Action Comics was once again at the forefront of this change.

During the Bronze Age, Action Comics began to publish more stories with a darker and more realistic tone. The stories often explored the social and political issues of the day, and they featured more complex and flawed characters.

The Bronze Age was also a time of great success for Action Comics. The title continued to be one of the most popular and influential comic books in the world, and it reached its second peak circulation in 1978, with over 500,000 copies sold per month.

The Modern Age (1986-Present)

The Modern Age of Comic Books began in 1986 with the publication of Crisis on Infinite Earths, which rebooted the DC Universe. The Modern Age has been a time of great change and innovation in the comic book industry, and Action Comics has continued to be a flagship title for DC Comics.

During the Modern Age, Action Comics has published a wide range of stories, from

Action Comics (1938-2024) #8

by Sherri Granato

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	41463 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	14 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE