Marvel Comics’ first original character was the Human Torch. The Human Torch made his debut in the first issue of Marvel’s precursor, Timely Comics, which was released in October 1939. This character was created by writer Carl Burgos.
The Human Torch was not the only character introduced in that first comic book. Other characters who also made their first appearances in that issue were the Sub-Mariner, the Angel, Ka-Zar, and the Masked Raider. However, the Human Torch is often recognized as the standout character and the one who truly paved the way for Marvel’s future success.
The Human Torch, also known as Jim Hammond, was an android with the ability to control fire. His origin story involved scientist Professor Phineas T. Horton, who created the android as an experiment. However, the android caught fire and gained sentience, becoming the Human Torch. With his fiery powers, the Human Torch fought crime and protected the innocent.
The debut of the Human Torch and the other characters in that first issue of Timely Comics marked the beginning of a new era in comic book storytelling. These characters were distinct from the superheroes that had come before, as they had more complex personalities and struggles. They were flawed, relatable, and faced moral dilemmas.
The success of the Human Torch and the other characters in that first comic book led to the expansion of Marvel’s roster of superheroes. This eventually led to the creation of iconic characters such as Captain America, Spider-Man, Iron Man, and the X-Men. The Human Torch’s popularity also led to his inclusion in the superhero team, the Fantastic Four, which became one of Marvel’s most beloved and enduring franchises.
As a Marvel fan, I have always been fascinated by the rich history and evolution of these characters. The Human Torch, in particular, holds a special place in Marvel’s history as the first original character. His introduction marked the beginning of a new era for comic books and set the stage for Marvel’s future success. It is incredible to see how these characters have evolved over the years and continue to capture the imaginations of fans around the world.
The Human Torch was Marvel Comics’ first original character. His debut in the first issue of Timely Comics in October 1939 marked the beginning of a new era in comic book storytelling. The Human Torch’s popularity and the success of the other characters in that first issue paved the way for Marvel’s future success and the creation of iconic superheroes.