Alan Kistler's Comic Book History Essays

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These essays cover the basic history/evolution of the characters involved, all of which span decades. However, I know that that's a bit daunting for some of you who just want to know the basic origin and powers of a character whose comic you want to start reading. So rest assured, each essay begins with a short section entitled Our Hero In A Nutshell and in just a few paragraphs tells you the basics you should know if you wanted to start reading, say, Wonder Woman next month.

So take a look around and see what you can learn.

Aquaman - A history of the undersea king Arthur Curry and his life full of magic, tragedy and myth.

Brainiac - An alien explorer with an intellect superior to any computer who wants to turn the universe into his personal lab. Next to Luthor, Brainiac has been Superman's greatest enemy and has threatened Earth on more than one occasion. 

Captain America - A history that spans from 1940 to the present day, featuring a sickly young man who became a hero and all those who followed in his footsteps. This article also covers the heroes Bucky, Nomad, the Falcon and U.S. Agent.

Donna Troy

Firestorm - The story of the nuclear super-hero who was really TWO heroes in one!

Flash

Green Lantern- Heroes of an inter-galactic police force and a man with a magic ring. All have been called Green Lantern and all have blazed a trail of light and justice.

Martian Manhunter - Thousands of years old and a founding member of the Justice League of America, J'onn J'onzz has been one of Earth's fiercest protectors over the years is proof that not all alien super-heroes are cut from the same Kryptonian cloth.

Power Girl - Looking for a girl who can stand toe-to-toe with Superman and doesn't bother acting nice about it? Look no further. This survivor of a dead parallel Earth is definitely your woman. 

Supergirl

Superman - A history of Kal-El, the boy who was raised as Clark Kent and grew up to be Earth's greatest champion.

Thor - The history of Marvel Comics' own god of thunder, along with a comparison of the original Norse myth and a look at the others who have followed his heroic legacy.

Wonder Woman - A history of Diana of Themyscira, an Amazon princess who became a warrior for peace.

Zod - General Dru-Zod, the Kryptonian terrorist who has plans to make the planet Earth and its greatest hero kneel before him and swear obedience.