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Note: listing updates since January 2008.
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Captain America Website Updates
Friday Special: Baring the SoulJul 30, 10
CIVIL WAR: THE CONFESSION presents us with Tony Stark’s effort to justify his actions during that crisis, when, because of his action, the superhero community was split in two and pitted against one another. The issue is divided into two parts, focusing on Iron Man and Captain America, respectively and offers a glimpse deep inside the two heroes’ concerns of the heart. It’s a hard-hitting character-based tale that puts the entire Civil War into perspective.
This was Julio’s favorite comic of the Civil War event and is now presented as a tribute to him, for making these superhero e-sites a reality. Here you go, Julio.
This Week’s Updates: More Kirby, More LiefeldJul 26, 10
It’s something only Jack Kirby could get away with: a gang of weirdoes out of a Dickens novel, who scavenge for supplies in our world, kidnap the Falcon and Leila and brainwash them so that the winged hero can rescue their tiny planetoid from invading monsters. So it’s up to Captain America to save the day, aided by a loud-mouthed Texas millionaire. An insane Kirby adrenaline rush from CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 1 #201-203!
Meanwhile our Cap Connoisseur Kevin Hollander encroaches on Avengers Aficionado Rob Johnson’s territory by writing up AVENGERS Vol. 2 #1-6, rebooted under the direction of Rob Liefeld. For this achievement he will be inducted into the Merry Marvel Marching Masochists’ Society. And there’s more to come….
See you in seven.
Friday Special: A Hero of a Different (Set of) ColorJul 23, 10
You can take the hero out of the uniform but you can’t take the…uh…you know what I mean. In STEVE ROGERS SUPER-SOLDIER #1, first part of a four-issue miniseries, we see a solo adventure of the former Captain America, now turned super-security agent. Learning that a scientist has managed to recreate the Super-Soldier Serum which gave him his powers, Steve undertakes a mission to stop the sale of the drug to America’s enemies and runs into mystery upon mystery—including the reappearance of a long-dead lover. I think this is the best story Ed Brubaker has done since Cap died and I hope it carries through on the same high level.
And as an added bonus, the issue reprints Cap’s origin as it originally appeared in 1941! A classic, but not a lot of people have seen it. And now here's your chance!
A Mixed Bag of UpdatesJul 19, 10
Here are this week’s updates, an odd collection of goodies tossed into a mix.
First up, Cap Connoisseur Kevin Hollander gives us CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 2 with issues 7-12, an easier task to complete than 1-6 since a better creative team had taken over from Rob Liefeld (including James "STARMAN" Robinson). Thanks, Kevin.
The miniseries CAPTAIN AMERICA/BLACK PANTHER: FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS wrapped up this week with issue 4, a solid, if undistinguished, wartime adventure with the two heroes plus Sgt Fury and the Howling Commandos versus the Red Skull and the Nazi war machine, battling for possession of the miracle element Vibranium.
And for something offbeat…you don’t usually think of Captain America and the X-Men together, do you? Well, there’s a reason for that. Cap’s first four guest appearances in the mutant team’s title were stretched over 20 years: three of those were Avengers guest shots and the other one was a brief cameo. And here they are, UNCANNY X-MEN #9, #108, #190, #191, for your synopsis-reading pleasure.
Friday Special: One Exceptionally Backhanded TributeJul 16, 10
NEW AVENGERS GUEST STARRING THE FANTASTIC FOUR was a one-shot designed as a tribute to "the real heroes, the men and women of the U.S. Military." It was given away free to American servicemen and –women to honor their heroic sacrifices in the fight against tyranny. In it the New Avengers and the Fantastic Four team up to face down a band of Kree warriors bent on mischief. And I hope I never get a tribute like this.
Why? The soldiers in the story are portrayed as the bad guys. The Kree are ready to shoot first without bothering to identify their opponents, and when matters are cleared up, they are still arrogant and disdainful of the foreign culture they have been deployed to. Looks like a veiled criticism of America’s overseas involvement designed to subvert the US soldiers’ mission rather than honor them. No wonder Captain America is largely silent throughout the tale.
Cold as Ice!Jul 12, 10
Hi, gang! We’re having a heat wave in my hometown these days so my constant thoughts have been of ice. And by coincidence, "Ice" was the title of a story arc in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 4 #12-16. In it Cap is being pursued by a sinister Lemurian with a cyborg hand who calls himself The Interrogator. His mission: to capture and corrupt the noble and heroic Captain America! And this comes at a time when Cap is hip deep in a conspiracy, questioning his own country’s morality! Chill out, Cap! It’s only Chuck Austen messing with your head!
Plus, we have our Cap Connoisseur Kevin Hollander doing the comic-book equivalent of throwing himself on a grenade for us: he has written up CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 2 #1-6 from the disappointing Heroes Reborn run by Rob Liefeld. Show your support by reading his synopses, then let us never speak of this again (or Liefeld’s Cap will bite you)!
Friday Special: Strange BedfellowsJul 9, 10
They say politics makes for strange bedfellows; comics with an issue to promote likewise:
Silver Surfer and Rhino in SILVER SURFER VOL3 #54.
Star-spanning hero of the galaxy and brutal thug in a superstrong costume.
Enemy of near-omnipotent cosmic beings and tough guy who always gets his butt kicked by Spider-Man.
What could they possible have in common?
They’re both environmentalists.
Of course they fight first (it’s in the comic book rules), but then they discover they are both members of PETA, only with differing ideas of how to rescue animals. Eventually they work together to save the planet.
Each in his own way, of course.
It was an INFINITY GAUNTLET tie-in and Captain America was there.
Updates: the Latest Cap and Avengers ForeverJul 5, 10
We’ve added the synopsis for the latest Cap issue CAPTAIN AMERICA #607 continuing the "No Escape" story arc in which Baron Zemo carries out a twisted plan of revenge against Bucky Barnes, the new Captain America. They never answer the big question though: why is Zemo so ticked off at Bucky? Shouldn’t it be the other way around? After all, whose father killed whom?
And we welcome back Avengers Aficionado Rob Johnson who has taken on the Herculean task (even though Hercules isn’t in it) of untangling the complicated plot threads of AVENGERS FOREVER, that complex, convoluted continuity caboodle. Here Rob finishes it up with issues 7-12. And if I gave out No-Prizes, he would get one just for issue 9, which has the longest synopsis and set of background notes of any of the comics appearing on Julio’s web of superhero sites. May this record stand forever in honor of Rob Johnson.
Friday Special: A Revolutionary New CapJul 2, 10
Did you know that the first Captain America appeared during the American Revolution to inspire the patriots in their struggle for freedom from tyranny? The fact was revealed in CAPTAIN AMERICA (Vol. 1) #193-200 but mainly to explain the long-simmering bitterness behind the Loyalist conspiracy. It wasn’t until CAPTAIN AMERICA: SENTINEL OF LIBERTY #7 that we discovered the full story: Captain Steven Rogers of the Continental Army donned a red-white-and-blue costume to unmask a traitor to the Revolution! Find out the details of this historic event and the impact it had on the modern Steve Rogers right here, just in time for the Fourth of July!
Kirby’s Back and Marvel’s Got Him! And Kevin’s Back too!Jun 28, 10
1976 saw Jack Kirby’s triumphal return to Marvel after years in exile working for the Distinguished Competition (that’s DC for those too young to remember Stan Lee’s jokes). He quickly took up writing and art chores on CAPTAIN AMERICA, his earliest created character and the results were, well…a bit odd. See, without Stan’s writing to anchor him, he let his wild imagination run free (just as he had for the New Gods titles he created for DC) and we ended up with something that was just crazy.
His first effort was the Madbomb story arc in CAPTAIN AMERICA (Vol. 1) #193-200, concerning a conspiracy to recapture America for the British during the United States’ Bicentennial! (That was July 4, 1976, for those keeping score—this Sunday marks 234 years the USA has been in business, making this a timely addition to the site.) And for some reason this plot involves Cap and the Falcon in a violent roller derby-like sport and sees him fall in love with a dying woman! Plus we meet the improbably named General Argyle Fist! It’s all right here!
This week we also see the return of one of our long-missed contributors, Cap Connoisseur Kevin Hollander, who finishes up CAP Vol 1 with issue 454. Great to have you back, Kevin!
Friday Special: Shield Unwielder NeededJun 25, 10
Some time ago--when Captain America came back from the dead--Marvel wondered "Who Will Wield the Shield?" and answered "Bucky!"
Now, in this weirdly unwieldy title, they are asking "Who WON'T Wield the Shield?" so who is it not gonna be? Doctor America? Golden Age Deadpool? Matt Fraction? Or…Forbush Man?!?
Doesn’t really matter: this oddball comical caper was just a lame excuse for Marvel to parody its own excesses, seeming hip while refusing to apologize or repent. Would have been cool if it were funny. But it isn’t so it’s not.
Meanwhile, get a shield of your own to unwield.
Some Extreme AdventuresJun 21, 10
Chuck Austen eased out John Ney Rieber as Cap’s regular writer for the story arc "The Extremists," spanning CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 4 #7-11. It involves a Native American revolutionary with god-like powers aiming to reclaim his people’s stolen land and includes an Atlantean heroine, a rogue faction of SHIELD, a conspiracy to clone Cap and Bucky, and a guest appearance by the Mighty Thor.
Wait…did I say c-c-c-clones? Aaaaah! Another Clone Saga!?!
Well, don’t panic, Captain Ameri-fans, because Marvel learned its lesson and the subplot dies here…unless (like the original Spidey clone) it returns in twenty years to wreak havoc on the title’s continuity. Shudder!
Anyway, the details of this controversial Cap run can be found here.
Friday Special: Bad Girl, Bad Girl, Whatcha Gonna Do?Jun 18, 10
…Beat up on that poor logo, it looks like.
In FANTASTIC FOUR #369, Sue Richards, Invisible Woman, adopts a new look: yes, that’s her on the cover, all skimpy black leather and spikes. Malice, her evil alter ego from a previous story, returns and tries to seize control. Sue clobbers the lady in black but finds she must absorb her dark side for some complicated reason or another. This doesn’t cause as much trouble as you’d think—unless you’re the Hulk. Him Sue blasts across the room. And it earns his respect.
It was an INFINITY WAR tie-in, and Captain America was there.
The New DealJun 14, 10
In the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Cap’s title was rebooted under John Ney Nieber and John Cassaday to reflect the darker national mood. The first story arc in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 4 #1-6 was designed to set the stage: more realistic writing and art to showcase the hero’s battle against real-life enemies: terrorists. The new direction was controversial but it allowed the creators to explore the mood of the times. The series would soon veer off in another direction when Rieber was replaced by the (fill in adjective of your choice) Chuck Austen, but for now it seemed that the veteran hero would be dealing with the real world.
Plus I've added issue 3 of CAPTAIN AMERICA/BLACK PANTHER: FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS, as that epic miniseries is winding down. Wartime action in an African venue; how can it miss?
And of course, there's CAP #606 with Baron Zemo's masked mug on the cover as he plots vengeance against Bucky Barnes, the new Captain America....
Friday Special: A Public Service AnnouncementJun 11, 10
We can all agree that illicit drugs are a scourge on society, causing untold devastation to users, their families and friends. That’s why, in this week’s highlighted title, CAPTAIN AMERICA GOES TO WAR AGAINST DRUGS.
Marvel put out this special anti-drug comic book back in 1990, written by the brilliant Peter David, using Marvel’s most trusted hero to warn kids of the dangers of getting involved with narcotics. It was an issue close to Stan Lee’s heart (remember the controversial 1960’s Spider-Man issues?) and anyone who cares for youth will feel the same concern since the problem hasn’t gone away.
Some readers (you know who you are) may find this corny but the message is told sincerely and seriously. This is a model for all public service free comic books.
Relationship Status: It's Complicated....Jun 7, 10
Captain America faces his most persistent and annoying enemy: his girlfriend Connie Ferrari!
Ever since they met she seems to have been a nagging thorn in his side lecturing him on civil liberties like he was an idiot. Here we see the final days of their relationship....
First off, in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 3 #39-40 he clashes with the lady lawyer over the rights of the latest A.I.M. mastermind, then in #41-43 he battles her brother David, who fancies himself a James Bond villain called The Answer! Finally, in #44 the Taskmaster comes between them and they split up for good.
David may be The Answer, but The Question is, What did Steve see in this mouthy harridan in the first place?
Friday Special: Never Send a Cap to Do the X-Men’s JobJun 4, 10
When there is mutant activity afoot, who ya gonna call? Well, the X-Men, right?
Well, supposing they’re all out of town, at a mutant heroes’ convention in Cancun or something? You put an ad in the paper and hope some other superhero shows up.
Someone did, and the ad was answered by none other than Captain America, come to investigate the weird pair of Mister One and Mister Two! Fortunately for us the job pits him against Magneto and his All-New, All-Lame Brotherhood of Evil Mutants for some crazy action!
It’s another wild-and-wacky Jack Kirby adrenaline rush and it took place in CAPTAIN AMERICA ANNUAL 4! Don’t miss it!
More ExcitementMay 31, 10
Bad news: the Red Skull has hijacked SHIELD's Helicarrier and is using it to spread the Hate-Monger's message of discord and strife.
It's up to Captain America, Iron Man, and the Sub-Mariner (and, y'know, SHIELD) to take it back, in the thrilling "America Lost" story arc in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 3 #45-48.
Plus, we've added FANTASTIC FOUR #367-370 which are tie-ins to the epic INFINITY WAR and guest star Cap and the rest of the Marvel Universe.
See you on Friday....
Friday Special: The Other Death of Captain AmericaMay 28, 10
Now that the big epic Death of Captain America storyline is (sort of) over, readers may be excused for feeling there was something a little bit familiar about the whole matter.
In CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 3 #50 Cap had already apparently met his Maker (and I don't mean Simon and Kirby), with a number of similar details
Bittersweet romance between Steve and Sharon? Check.
Cap’s death at the hands of the Red Skull (or a reasonable facsimile thereof)? Check.
Shocked reaction of the nation to the passing of an iconic hero? Check.
Tearful reactions from other Marvel heroes? Check.
Moving eulogy by Sam (The Falcon) Wilson? Check.
Story stretched out over two years and several dozen comic books? Wait…
You mean to tell me that the whole earlier death of Cap was covered in half of a special issue?!?
Ah, Marvel! We were all young and naïve once….
It's About TimeMay 24, 10
Another Captain America epic involving time travel? That's right--and it's REBORN, the major miniseries detailing how the assassinated Cap came back from the dead! The details begin here.
And Hulkmeister Julio Molina-Muscara has also contributed a couple of Cap guest appearances in recent Hulk issues: HULK #22 in which the identity of Red Hulk is revealed and INCREDIBLE HULK #609 in which we learn more about the Red She-Hulk.
And more to come!
Friday Special: Belated CongratulationsMay 21, 10
In 2006, Captain America celebrated his 65th anniversary in the comics and Marvel observed the occasion with the CAPTAIN AMERICA 65TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL (catchy title, that), a wartime epic pitting Cap and Bucky against the Red Skull. It features guest stars Sgt. Fury and the Howling Commandos and concludes the way more superhero comics should: with having the hero battle a giant robot! Don’t miss it!
Added bonus: the epilogue hints at something that comes to fruition in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol 5 #23 and following and climaxes in REBORN. Call it the Brubaker Master Plan.
From Time to TimeMay 17, 10
Continuing with our time-twisting theme, Avengers Aficionado Rob Johnson has sent us AVENGERS FOREVER 5 & 6, continuing the heroic team's wild ricochet ride through their pasts, presents, and futures!
Not to be outdone, Captain America took journey by his lonesome self into an alternate future and back in the "Deathlok Lives" story arc that ran in CAPTAIN AMERICA (Vol. 1) #286-289. There Cap tangled with the crazed cyborg, his clone, and the supporting cast from his solo series back in the day--and it was all about as lucid as Deathlok stories usually are.
And in the "If at first you don't succeed" Department, Cap and the Falcon reunited in MARVEL FANFARE Vol. 2 #1 to stop a second attempt to bring Deathlok's world into reality!
As an added bonus, Cap issue 289 also features the one and only appearance of the delightful Bernie America, as Steve's most charming girlfriend adopts the red-white-and-blue to fight crime--after a fashion.
Friday Special: Who Asked for Ultimate Deathlok?May 14, 10
In the thrilling tale of ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN 70, Peter Parker relates to Mary Jane his meeting with the new and hip Doctor Strange and of his encounter with the Ultimates who are whomping on the cyborg baddie Deathlok.
It’s a strange tale full of suspense and action, with the first appearances in this title of Ultimate Captain America, Black Widow, and Hawkeye. But who asked for Ultimate Deathlok? Really? The original was a lot cooler and more interesting (which could be the epitaph of every Ultimate character) and actually had something to do other than being punching bag of the week. Don’t believe me? See this Monday’s update for the "Deathlok Lives" story arc.
Courtesy of the Captain America Library.
More Monday Stuff!May 10, 10
Hey there, Captain Ameri-fans!
We've added a few things to the site this week: something new, something old, and something astounding...
New is CAPTAIN AMERICA/BLACK PANTHER: FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS #2 in which Captain America and T'Chaka stand together against the Nazi invaders of Wakanda in an action-packed installment of this miniseries.
Old is THE ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN AMERICA, a four-part miniseries from the early nineties, offering another creative take on Cap's origin and first mission.
Astounding is a contribution from Rob Johnson, Avengers Aficionado from across the Pond who has gone above and beyond in writing up AVENGERS FOREVER, that time-torturing epic that sends our heroes (Cap included) bounding through their own pasts, presents, and futures, in an effort to keep Kang the Conquerer from doing his usual Kang deeds. Issues 1-4 are here with more to come in subsequent weeks (though if Kang gets his way, all bets are off)!
Check them all out!
Friday Special: Iron MattersMay 7, 10
In honor of today’s (American) nation-wide release of IRON MAN 2, I wanted to showcase something that showed Captain America and Iron Man standing side-by-side against the forces of evil….
Unfortunately, things have been a little cool between the two of late, what with leading opposing sides of something called a Civil War and all that (ya think?) so for a while it looked like I would have to choose the Civil War issue in which they actually fight the least….
Until I remembered CAPTAIN AMERICA (Vol. 1) #112 in which Tony Stark pays a loving and un-conflicted tribute to his fallen pal (believed dead in the previous issue). This marked both Iron Man’s first appearance in Cap’s book and Jack Kirby’s last art on Cap until his return to Marvel in 1976, a double milestone. And it allows Tony to say a lot of nice stuff about Steve.
So go see the movie and dream of happier times when Iron Man wasn’t such a jerk. Julio recommends it.
The End of 1950s Captain America?May 3, 10
 The latest issue of our favorite title, CAPTAIN AMERICA #605 (see at right) features the apparent demise of the renegade 1950s Cap, so in his memory I've added the final two issues of his original three-issue run in 1954: CAPTAIN AMERICA COMICS #77 and 78. See what he was like before he was retconned into a villain!
As an added bonus we have Cap (the real one--Steve Rogers) joining the Avengers to investigate the mystery of the Sentry--a literally forgotten Silver Age superhero--in one of the most offbeat tales in all Marveldom! It all happened in NEW AVENGERS #7-10 and the madness starts here.
Friday Special: The Amazing Adventures of Cap and Froggy!Apr 30, 10
 In MARVEL FANFARE #31-32, Captain America (reluctantly) gains a new partner, the Fabulous Frog-Man! This young dedicated but utterly incompetent hero enlists Cap in a mission against the Yellow Claw, and comes to regret it. As well he should.
I’m waiting for the WHAT IF? issue in which Froggy comes back as a partner for Bucky Cap, is killed on a mission, sending Bucky into a guilty depression for decades, then suddenly returning—as the al-Qaida assassin Lilypad Soldier! Destined to be a classic! Ed Brubaker, send royalties to me c/o this website!
Closing the GapApr 26, 10
 Hey gang:
This week we've added the missing three issues of the most recent Captain America title:
Issue #600 looking at Cap's death one year later and providing the lead-in to REBORN!
Issue #601 in which Cap and Bucky battle vampires in wartime Europe, with art by the great Gene "the Dean" Colan!
And issue #602 which began the current "Two Americas" storyline, as Bucky-Cap and the Falcon reunite for a mission against the fascist Watchdogs, led by the 1950s "Bad Cap."
Meanwhile, we also present the storyline from NEW AVENGERS #1-6: "Breakout" in which a mass prison break by supervillains led to the formation of the New Avengers. Cap! Iron Man! Spider-Man! Ms Marvel! Wolverine! and more, right here.
Friday Special: The Cap Twins Under SiegeApr 23, 10
 In SIEGE: CAPTAIN AMERICA we take a side trip to see the two Caps—Steve and Bucky, who have been working together again in this year’s company-wide crossover—take a break to battle a villain with hostages. Nice to see Steve and Bucky as partners again, but two guys in that uniform standing together makes them look like the Cap Twins—Cap 1 and Cap 2.
And Razor-Fist--a weirdo with machete blades instead of hands--seems to have the most impractical enhancements of any tricked up baddie in Marvel history. Try to imagine how he goes about his daily business when he isn’t villaining, and you’ll get the idea.
Classic Cap: the End of NomadApr 19, 10
 This weeks' update is the conclusion to the Nomad story arc (part one last week) in CAPTAIN AMERICA (Vol. 1) #181-186.
Steve Rogers, disillusioned with his country in the wake of the Secret Empire adventure, abandoned his identity as Captain America and adopted the guise of Nomad, Man Without a Country.
Well, the tragic fate of Roscoe who took on the Cap role, and the return of the Red Skull caused Steve to take up the shield once more.
But all was not finished: one more shock awaited our hero, this time concerning his partner, the Falcon....
Details are here.
As an additional goodie we also have the two part tale from IRON MAN (Vol. 1) #227-228, part of the original Armor Wars saga, in which Tony Stark's mission to shut down all armored adventurers (good and bad) using stolen Stark technology pits him against his longtime compatriot Captain America. Sparks fly!
And after two weeks of delay, will we ever learn who won't wield the shield?
Friday Special: A Lesson in FisticuffsApr 16, 10
 Tony Stark has a problem: he needs to know how to fight when he’s not in the Iron Man armor. In IRON MAN (Vol. 1) #125, he’s had to put his costumed identity on hold while he deals with a plot by Justin Hammer in the classic "Demon in a Bottle" storyline.
So to whom would you go to learn how to defend yourself? Same place I’d go and the same place Tony went: to Captain America. He learns some moves that will come in handy later, even if we can’t quite picture Robert Downey doing them. (And since Marvel’s Civil War is still many years in the future, we’re not rooting for Cap to take the opportunity to punch Tony’s lights out.)
And we’re counting the days until the release of IRON MAN 2, with live-action Tony Stark and Justin Hammer going head-to-head.
Classic Cap: The Coming of...Nomad!Apr 12, 10
 As a follow-up to the shocking Secret Empire story arc, Marvel presented something even more surprising: Captain America cast off his colors in protest of his county's actions and adopted a new identity, that of Nomad, the man without a country.
It seems a bit quaint now, but at the time the idea that America was being betrayed by its leaders was quite a shot to the gut.
The first half of the extended storyline was in CAPTAIN AMERICA (Vol 1) #176-180 and can be seen here.
Then Julio (the Hulkmeister) Molina-Muscara sent in Cap's guest appearances in IRON MAN Vol. 3 #73 and 75 for some armored action.
Finally, we have the debut issue of the four part miniseries CAPTAIN AMERICA/BLACK PANTHER: FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS detailing the first meeting of the two legendary heroes.
Ciao for now.
Friday Special: Patriotic Romance StoriesApr 9, 10
 CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 3 #49 is the perfect issue for all of you who said, "Who cares about the Red Skull, Hydra, and other threats to the nation? I wanna see a comic all about Captain America’s love life!" That’s right, all none of you who thought Marvel was at its best when Kirby was doing romance comics in the 1950s!
Steve ends his relationship with the ever-annoying Connie Ferrari—whose role in the series seemed to be to lecture him on the importance of civil liberties like he was an idiot—and sets out in search of Sharon Carter. There follows a sweet, touching reunion—in the middle of a battle with sumo samurai!
It’s one of the (intentionally) funniest Cap issues.
And Sam Wilson has a thing for Salma Hayek. Just sayin'.
Classic Cap: The Secret EmpireApr 5, 10
 One of the most shocking (for its time) Cap storylines was the Secret Empire arc which ran in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol.1 #169-175.
As the nation was reeling from the stunning revelations of corruption in the government exposed by the Watergate scandal, Marvel ran this epic in which a sinister conspiracy plots to discredit Captain America as part of a scheme to seize control of the government with a climax that shatters Cap's faith in his country and leads him to... well, you'll see. Hang on to your hats!
Added bonus: first appearance of the original Moonstone (the male one)!
Friday Special: Shield Wielder WantedApr 2, 10
We’re a couple of Caps
Those patriotic chaps
And we will fight the Nazis when our country gets into these scraps….
Okay so I’m no Irving Berlin. But then Steve and Bucky are no Fred Astaire and Judy Garland (whoa, I just pictured the upcoming movie with that casting…)
In WHO WILL WIELD THE SHIELD, the newly returned Steve Cap teams up with Bucky Cap for the first—and so far only—time, leading to the debate over who will be the regular Captain America. To everyone’s surprise, Steve chose to drop out of his own series and leave the task to Bucky, raising quite a few questions for longtime readers.
Me, I think they should go with Dick Grayson. He’ll be looking for work soon.
By the way, the song parodied above is "We're a Couple of Swells" from the film EASTER PARADE.
For those who observe the season, may you have a blessed holiday.
And if you don't, have a nice weekend!
Classic Cap: A Fistful of FirstsMar 29, 10
We've added CAPTAIN AMERICA (Vol. 1) #163-168 this week and this short range of issues contains a number of fascinating firsts:
a) First appearance of the Serpent Squad (#163)
b) First appearance of Dr. Nightshade (#164)
c) First appearance of the Yellow Claw in modern Marvel continuity (#164).
And, most significantly,
d) The first appearance of Baron Helmut Zemo, here the Phoenix (pre-Jean Gray) but later the sinister Citizen V (#168).
Hope you enjoy them.
Friday Special: The Avengers…Simpsonized!Mar 26, 10
MARVEL DOUBLE SHOT was an offbeat four-issue miniseries offering unusual and creative takes on Marvel’s big name characters.
The most unusual came in issue #2 when Bill Morrison, the mastermind behind Bongo’s SIMPSONS COMICS, presented his version of the Avengers…and it was exactly what you’re picturing. See the details here.
The Korvac Saga!Mar 22, 10
This week we’ve added an epic event from Avengers history: the Korvac Saga!
It started with the Guardians of the Galaxy coming to our time in pursuit of their nemesis Korvac the Machine Man and contacting Earth’s Mightiest Heroes for aid.
Meanwhile, a charismatic cult leader named Michael sets forth on plans to dominate the world….
The Avengers are caught up in a mind-boggling sequence of events that pits them against old foes Ultron and the Collector and leads to a stunning apocalyptic climax that leaves the world in pieces!
It all took place in AVENGERS #167-177 (minus #169) and it will leave you gasping for breath!
Friday Special: Surprise Endings and Sudden AppearancesMar 19, 10
Don’t you love surprise endings? It’s what’s kept O. Henry, THE TWILIGHT ZONE, and M. Night Shyamalan on everybody’s mind for years.
Well, it’s also a major plot device for good ol’ Marvel. Their favorite seems to be having a character suddenly show up on the last page of a comic either by way of introduction (it happened to Wolverine) or as a shock for the audience (Doctor Doom holds the record for this type).
Marvel outdid themselves in WARLOCK AND THE INFINITY WATCH #8: after the title team spends an entire issues kicking back and/or bickering with Thanos, they are surprised by the arrival of…the entire Marvel Universe!?!
It was an INFINITY WAR tie-in…and Captain America was there (along with everybody else).
Earlier Cap Classics!Mar 15, 10
Hey gang!
We've added a number of exciting Captain America classics from earlier days (you know, back when everyone knew Bucky was dead).
First up, there's the Crime Wave saga in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 1 #157-159.
Then we have the first appearance of Defenders' baddie Solarr in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 1 #160.
Next up we have CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 1 #161-162 with the sinister scheme of Dr Faustus and the surprising return of Peggy Carter (who used to be Sharon Carter's sister but is now her aunt, thanks to the magic of retcons).
And now let's hear from some of our other contributors:
Rob Johnson sends us AVENGERS #395, part of the time-bending story arc known as The Crossing!
Marc Toy sends us a couple of issues from his favorite title INVADERS 3 and 4.
And Kevin Hollander rounds out the update with the four-part Man Without a Country arc from CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 1 #450-453, in which Cap is branded a traitor!
As Stan Lee would say, "Face front, Pilgrim!" See you next week!
Friday Special: The Irresistible Force Meets the Immoveable ObjectMar 12, 10
Hey kids! What do two heroes always do when they meet for the first time?
That’s right, they fight!
Here in IRON FIST #12 we see the first encounter of Captain America with the star of the book, and the question is, will Iron Fist's signature move have any effect against the mighty shield?
And how long will it be before (as usual) they discover they are both good guys and team up to fight the real baddies? Find out now!
The Man with No FaceMar 8, 10
After the defeat of the Red Skull's forces in the wake of the death of Captain America, new Cap Bucky Barnes sets out on his first independent mission--and comes up against a foe from his days as the Winter Soldier: The Man with No Face!
The story ran in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 5 #43-48 and can be seen starting here.
Plus, some Avengers action has been added, with the debuts of two famous characters:
AVENGERS #161-162 sees the introduction of Jocasta, the most formidable bride this side of Beatrix Kiddo, and in AVENGERS #194-196 the team meets the supercompetent mercenary, the Taskmaster!
Be there!
Friday Special: Captain America, Commie Smasher!Mar 5, 10
One of the most unusual events in the history of Captain America was the retconning of the 1950s Cap (originally the same person as the 1940s Cap, of course) into a separate character and a villain. Now that Bad Cap is back in the comics as the main baddie in CAPTAIN AMERICA Vol. 5 # 602-605, here’s the write-up on his first appearance, waaaay back in CAPTAIN AMERICA #76 in 1954.
The Man Who Bought AmericaMar 1, 10
 The epic Death of Captain America saga concludes with The Man Who Bought America, as the new Cap (Bucky Barnes) uncovers the Red Skull's elaborate plot to take over the country in a massive economic and political conspiracy. See the full story starting here
Plus, we present the sequel to the epic Contest of Champions, as the Avengers are shanghaied into another elaborate competition by the Grandmaster, this time against Death herself! Part one is in WEST COAST AVENGERS ANNUAL 2 and the conclusion in AVENGERS ANNUAL 16.
Friday Special: Living Lunch of World War 2Feb 26, 10
Ultimate Spider-Man has been absorbed by the villainous Venom when the Ultimates arrive in the—ta-daaa—nick of time. Sadly, the sinister symbiote seizes and snacks on Captain America, swallowing him whole!
Poor Peter, doesn’t he know that the Ultimates cause indigestion?
If you can stomach it, roll(aid) on over to ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN 126 for the full story—and have your Pepto-Bismol ready.
Coming Fast and Furious!Feb 22, 10
Now that all the problems have been resolved (I hope I hope) we have a number of issues to add to the site:
Kevin Hollander has sent in CAPTAIN AMERICA 447-449 as he continues to fill in the last issues of Volume 1.
And we have the complete Burden of Dreams chapter to the Death of Captain America, in which Bucky Barnes takes on the mantle of Captain America to track down the villains responsible for the hero's murder. You can see that starting here.
And there's a lot more to come, so stay tuned!
It's Been a While...Feb 19, 10
 So we're back, with a new redesigned site (primarily the part that doesn't show), with all the bugs worked out.
For a Friday Special to celebrate our return, here's the most speculated on question of Captain America's career: what if Cap and Bucky had survived the War unscathed? Well, ponder no more, pilgrims, Roy Thomas told us what would happen in the classic WHAT IF? (volume #1) #5 from 1977.
Be forewarned, though...everything turns out for the worse in a WHAT IF....
Several Comics Added to the SiteFeb 19, 10
 Hi, it's Julio. Using the new Comic Book Synopsis Submission page, several missing synopses were sent by Rob Johnson, Marc Toy, and Pedro, who received their Super Hero eLibrary Pass for their valuable contribution. The new synopses include Avengers #15, #16, #18, #19, #20; Invaders #1, #2; and Contest of Champions #1, #2, #3. Thanks again, guys!
Note: Large covers and preview pages available for these comics.
Note2: Due to a problem in the system, we received more than one synopsis per comic; in those cases, all synopses are shown and credited, and the "Synopsis Written By" line which can only be set to one person, is set to the Contributor who sent it first.
May 2010 ComicsFeb 16, 10
 Visit the Upcoming Comics page to see covers and info about comics related to Captain America that are coming out on May 2010.
April 2010 ComicsJan 24, 10
 Visit the Upcoming Comics page to see the Captain America related comics coming out on April of 2010.
Well, That Didn't Last Long...Jan 7, 10
Listen up, Captain Ameri-fans!
Our resident Web Wizard Julio Molina-Muscara is doing a complete overhaul to the Captain America, Hulk, Doc Savage, and She-Hulk Libraries, to correct problems with the server, make it easier for the site managers to add data, and create a more pleasing visit for fans of the featured heroes.
To that end, the site will be frozen until the end of the month, when we will return with more Captain America action.
See you then, soldiers!
PS If you would like to have a comic book site of your very own to play around with, contact Julio at the e-mail address below and he can set you up. Just maybe not in the next couple of weeks.
A Day Late But Not a Dollar ShortJan 5, 10
Well, we're back, with the server glitch (mostly) ironed out.
Today we've got a couple of issues from contributor Kevin Hollander: CAPTAIN AMERICA #447, which is part three of the classic "Operation: Rebirth" saga, and CAP Vol 5, #2, the second installment of "Out of Time," the original Winter Soldier story. Enjoy.
Not to be outdone, here's a riddle: What do you get when you cross the Ultimate Avengers with the Ultimate X-Men? Why, ULTIMATE WAR, of course. The details of the minseries pitting the two Ultimate teams against one another can be found here.
Still No Sign of LandJan 4, 10
Server still giving us trouble so no updates until further notice.
Here's wishing you all a great 2010!
Unplanned HiatusDec 28, 09
Captain Ameri-fans: Hope you had a nice holiday.
Unfortunately a server problem is preventing us from adding any new material to the Captain America Library right now. We hope to have it back running as soon as possible.
So all I can do right now is wish each of you a Happy New Year!
Friday Special: Sleepers Awake!Dec 25, 09
Bach...er, back in the day, one of the classic Captain America storylines involved the Red Skull and his three Sleepers. Well, those great tales were reprinted in Captain America Annual 2 found here.
And I'll be getting back to my family Christmas. May the blessings of the season follow you as you celebrate whatever holiday you prefer.
And if you don't celebrate any, enjoy the three-day weekend!
Classic Cap: the 50s Meet the 70sDec 21, 09
The saga of Captain America took a strange turn back in 1972: in issues 153-156 the 1950s Cap and Bucky returned--as a pair of paranoid bigots determined to eliminate the "impostor" Steve Rogers and reclaim their role as America's great heroes. It was an audacious move on Marvel's part, retconning a previous series and recasting the hero as a villain but it worked. And you can get the details here.
As a bonus we also have issues 151-152 in which Captain America and the Falcon battle the unlikely team of the Scorpion and Mister Hyde, climaxing in the moment we've all been waiting for, when Cap punches out Nick Fury! Don't miss it!
Friday Special: Something SillyDec 18, 09
The Ant-Man/Giant-Man series in TALES TO ASTONISH was probably the silliest saga in early Marvel history but what would you expect from a superhero who would have trouble fighting a cat?
And of all the silly stuff Hank Pym had to put up with whatever his size, this issue may be the most ridiculous.
So here it is in all its dopey glory--and Captain America has a guest shot in it.
Poor Steve.
The Death of the DreamDec 14, 09
The most shocking event in the history of Captain America came when the Living Legend of World War 2 was brutally assassinated in the pages of his own comic.
This week I've added the summaries for Cap Vol. 5, issues 25-30, the story arc known as "The Death of the Dream," which covers his murder and the immediate aftermath as Cap's friends--The Falcon, Winter Soldier, and the tragic Sharon Carter--investigate the crime, as the Red Skull and his minions move their sinister plot forward.
The details start here.
Friday Special: Jerod BlayneyDec 11, 09
Something a bit different this Friday on the Captain America Library: fan artist Jerod Blayney whose work graces the Incredible Hulk Library has provided some of his distinctive photo-collages of Cap and the Avengers for us.
His contributions can be seen at http://www.captainamericalibrary.com/superhero-library/captain-america/captain-america-fan-artwork-image-gallery.aspx
When a Legend DiesDec 7, 09
 In the aftermath of the shocking assassination of Captain America, Marvel presented FALLEN SON: THE DEATH OF CAPTAIN AMERICA, a five-issue limited series examining the reaction of Cap's colleagues and temmates to the tragedy.
Patterned after Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross' five stages of grief--denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance--the series climaxes with the poignant and inspiring funeral of Captain America, the greatest American hero.
Summaries of the issues start here.
Friday Special: An Evil Odd CoupleDec 4, 09
 What is the weirdest team-up of two villains you can think of?
My nomination is the one in CAPTAIN AMERICA #149 and 150, wherein Batroc the Leaper goes to work for the Stranger!
That's right, an immortal alien being with godlike powers teams up with a caricature Frenchman who kicks people in the face. Sacre bleu!
The fun can be seen here.
[And to make it even stranger, it turns out this Stranger is not the familiar Stranger everyone knows (now there's an oxymoron) but a strange Stranger. Told you it was a strange arrangement.]
All This..and Hydra TooNov 30, 09
A Captain America story arc from 1972 pits Cap and SHIELD's Femme Force against Hydra and their mysterious new leader...plus their not-so-mysterious old leader...plus another sleeper...plus a lot of other trouble.
Check out the synopses of CAPTAIN AMERICA 144-148 here.
Friday Special: What Makes a Hero?Nov 27, 09
In the Ultimate Spider-Man Super Special, Peter Parker is assigned to write an essay on a hero. In his musings on the subject he crosses paths with nearly all the other characters of the Marvel Ultimate Universe. Among these, Captain America stands out as the most respected and most noble, even among the Ultimates (especially among the Ultimates)
Civil WarNov 23, 09
 Marvel's major crossover event of 2006 was a shocking epic about the Super Hero Registration Act requiring all masked heroes to reveal their identities to the government. Reaction to the Act divided the heroes into two camps, bitterly opposed to one another, paving the way to tragedy. Iron Man led the pro-government forces and Captain America formed the rebels into the Secret Avengers. This grim and intense storyline led directly to the death of Captain America.
The basic miniseries central to the crossover is summarized starting here.
Friday Special: Don't You Hate When This Happens?Nov 20, 09
We've all been there: we come into possession of a powerful superweapon and we don't know how to work the stupid thing 'cause there's no user's manual. Wait...you say you've never been in that position? Come to think of it, neither have I.
But Quasar has. In issues 38 and 39 of his book, he is given the Ultimate Nullifier and sets out in a quest for, well, tech support. It doesn't go well, especially when he runs into a fellow called the Deathurge (not a helpful sort).
This is an Infinity War crossover, and Captain America was there.
Where It All BeganNov 16, 09
 Captain America burst on the scene in 1941, a few months before the United States entered World War 2, the greatest (if not the first) of the patriotic heroes of that era. Simon and Kirby invested their creation with a white-hot energy that, despite some goofy plots, thrills to this day. This week's update features the first ten issues of that landmark title, which is Simon and Kirby's complete run on the hero they created, though Kirby would make a triumphant comeback in the 60s and 70s. The action begins here.
And as an added bonus, contributor Kevin Hollander sent in Captain America 446, part two of the "Operation: Rebirth" story arc, wherein Cap and the Red Skull team up (!) to prevent the resurrection of Adolf Hitler (!!). Thanks, Kevin.
Friday Special: Something CoolNov 13, 09
 Admit it. When you first heard that there was a book called BATMAN & CAPTAIN AMERICA, you thought it would have to be the coolest comic book ever written, especially when you learned that the villains would be the Joker and the Red Skull. And Johnny Byrne was the icing on the cake. Well, here it is and it lives up to promise. Get the full story here.
Cap Meets the Stones!Nov 9, 09
 No, not the Rolling Stones, but the people turned to stone by the grisly power of the Grey Gargoyle in the conclusion to the four part epic involving Steve Rogers' undercover assignment as a police officer and Captain America's efforts to stop the villain from hijacking SHIELD's latest discovery, the deadly Element X! The action starts in issue 140.
Then we have Cap's latest confrontations with the Red Skull in issue 143 and Hydra in issue 144. The latter tale features the introduction of the Falcon's famed red-and-white costume! So famed in fact that you probably didn't know he started out in green!
More to come!
Captain America versus Spider-Man!Nov 2, 09
 Added some Captain America issues from the early 1970s.
First, a two-part tale from Cap 135 and 136 has the Star-Spangled Avenger facing off against a monster ape in an adventure that takes him to the center of the Earth! Then, Cap and the Falcon square off against Spider-Man in his first appearance in the title with a two-parter from Cap 137 and 138!
Last, part one of a four-part mission that pits Cap against the deadly Grey Gargoyle, with the added bonus of a character who is a dead ringer for Jack "King" Kirby himself! More to come!
"Regime Change" at the Cap LibraryOct 26, 09
 Hey, Captain Ameri-fans!
Peter Silvestro here of Doc Savage Library fame. (I'll wait while you go look at it.)
You're back? Good. Well, Julio, busy with his terrific web comic for the Incredible Hulk Library, has asked me to take over as Site Manager here for the time being, so I'll be putting in comics issues as well as writing them up (the fun part of the job) I hope to have an update every Monday evening.
If you'd like to contribute synopses to the site just send them to me at psilvestro1@verizon.net and they will be added.
We're especially looking for someone to keep up with the most recent issues of Captain America's comic so anyone volunteering for that job would be much lauded.
See you in seven!
Oh Yeah, the UpdatesOct 26, 09
 We're adding a couple of things tonight: Captain America Annual issue 1 now has a synopsis: it's all reprints but soon the annuals would feature new material. Check it out here
And Tales of Suspense #58 marks Cap's first appearance in that title, his only guest shot in Iron Man's half of the book; the following issue would see the debut of his own series. The sinister Chameleon, taking a break from battling Spider-Man, pits Cap and Shellhead against one another! Details here
Many Synopsis Added to the Comics LibrarySep 6, 09
 My friend Peter Silvestro put "pen to paper" and wrote magnificent synopsis for more than a dozen Captain America related comics, including The Infinity War (1992 by Jim Starlin and Ron Lim, six issues of Magus vs. the Marvel Universe), the large format Bicentennial Battles #1 (1976 by Jack Kirby), and Captain America #125 to #134 (1970-71, by Stan Lee and Gene Colan, Cap goes to Viet Nam, the first return of Bucky Barnes, and other stories). Visit the comics library to read those, and many more.
New Synopses From Older Cap DaysAug 6, 09
 About two dozen new synopses were added to the library; 20 from the classic days of 1968 and 1969 (from Captain America #105 to #124 including stories like Dr. Faustus first appearance, and the coming of the Falcon), sent by Peter Silvestro; and two synopses from 1995 (Captain America #444 and 445 about the near death of Captain America) sent by Kevin Hollander. Thanks guys!
Captain America September 09 ComicsJun 16, 09
 Check out the Upcoming Comics page to see covers and information about the Captain America comics that are coming out in September 2009.
Captain America 100-104Jun 16, 09
 Check out the Comics Library to read synopses of the 1968 tales of Captain America #100 to #104 by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, courtesy of Peter Silvestro.
Tales of Suspense (Part 2)Jun 11, 09
 Here is the rest of the Tales of Suspense issues, a book from the 60s filled with classic Stan Lee tales that included an Iron Man story, and a Captain America story. Immerse into issues #80 to #99 and learn about the creation of MODOK, when Cap asked Sharon Carter's hand, Steve Rogers quitting as Cap, among several other fine stories thanks to the valuable contribution of Peter Silvestro. The single issue of Tales of Suspense Vol. 2 is also included in this update.
Captain American 1944 Movie SerialJun 11, 09
 Many ignore that there was a Captain America movie serial that aired during World War II in movie theaters. Fifteen episodes in total, they are now in the public domain and you may see them at Blip.tv thanks to John MacIntyre who felt "it was my duty to share this nostalgic treat with the masses".
See all 15 episodes here
Tales of Suspense!May 31, 09
 The first volume of "Captain America" was preceded by "Tales of Suspense", a book which featured a Captain America story from issue #58 until #99, after which the book's name changed to "Captain America". Revive or discover most of those 60s stories in a marathon of reading from issue #59 to #79 thanks to the valuable contribution of my friend Peter Silvestro.
Cap meets Sharon Carter, first appearance of the Cosmic Cube, the Red Skull
returns, WWII adventures with Bucky and more fabulous tales by writer Stan Lee, and artists Jack Kirby, George Tuska, John Romita, among others.
Captain America #50May 20, 09
 This milestone Captain America #50 issue (after 25 issues without Steve Rogers as Captain America), it's about Bucky's B-day. Will Barnes be able to celebrate it? Only if his enemies don't kill him first.
Wallpapers and PinupsMay 20, 09
 Check out the new wallpapers and pinups, gotten from the latest Captain America comic.
Infinity GauntletMay 20, 09
 A battle of epic proportions took place in space during 1991, gathering the main Marvel super heroes to fight against Thanos who had just turned into a god. This classic miniseries was called The Infinity Gauntlet and it is now available in the site thanks to the valuable contribution of Peter Silvestro.
August 2009 ComicsMay 20, 09
 Visit the Upcoming Comics page to see what Captain America comic books are coming out on August 2009.
The Site Is Live!May 1, 09
 The Captain America Library site is now live! It is the latest addition to my Superhero Library website series that started with the Hulk Library, and continued with She-Hulk and Doc Savage libraries.
Browse the site to read cap's history, download wallpapers, among other things. But there's still lots of content to add to the site, specially comic book synopses.
I invite YOU to help me do that. You may see the list of missing synopses here. Besides getting something out of the site, you will be doing something for the Captain America site as well. Thanks :)
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Updated Comics
Most recent Cap comic in the Library
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Who is your favorite Captain America?
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