The Silver Age Epic
Justice League of America: Volume 1, Issue 136, published in October 1967, is a pivotal issue in the history of DC Comics and the superhero team genre. This issue marked the debut of a new roster of Justice League members, including Aquaman, Atom, Black Canary, Cyborg, Flash, Green Arrow, Green Lantern, Hawkman, Martian Manhunter, Red Tornado, Superman, and Wonder Woman. This iconic lineup would go on to become one of the most recognizable and beloved superhero teams of all time.
The Storyline
The issue opens with the Justice League receiving a distress signal from the planet Thanagar. Upon arriving, they discover that the planet has been conquered by hawk-like aliens known as the Thanagarians. The Justice League engages in a fierce battle with the Thanagarians, but they are outnumbered and outmatched. Just when all hope seems lost, the Martian Manhunter arrives and uses his telepathic powers to turn the tide of the battle.
With the Thanagarians defeated, the Justice League learns that the invasion was led by a rogue general named H'kat. H'kat has been using the Thanagarian army to conquer planets and enslave their inhabitants. The Justice League vows to stop H'kat and his forces, and they set out on a mission to liberate the conquered planets.
The Characters
Justice League of America: Volume 1, Issue 136 features a star-studded cast of iconic superheroes. Each member of the team brings their unique powers and abilities to the fight against H'kat and his army.
- Aquaman: The King of Atlantis, Aquaman commands the power of the ocean and its creatures.
- Atom: The size-changing hero, Atom, can shrink to subatomic size or grow to giant proportions.
- Black Canary: A skilled martial artist and master of the sonic cry, Black Canary is a formidable opponent.
- Cyborg: A half-human, half-machine hybrid, Cyborg possesses superhuman strength and advanced technology.
- Flash: The fastest man alive, Flash can run at incredible speeds and create powerful vortices.
- Green Arrow: A master archer and skilled strategist, Green Arrow is a formidable warrior.
- Green Lantern: Armed with a power ring that can create anything he can imagine, Green Lantern is one of the most powerful heroes in the universe.
- Hawkman: A winged warrior from the planet Thanagar, Hawkman possesses superhuman strength and flight.
- Martian Manhunter: A shapeshifter and telepath from the planet Mars, Martian Manhunter is a powerful and versatile ally.
- Red Tornado: An android with the ability to control wind and create cyclones, Red Tornado is a force of nature.
- Superman: The Man of Steel, Superman possesses incredible strength, speed, and invulnerability.
- Wonder Woman: An Amazon princess and demigoddess, Wonder Woman is a skilled warrior and a symbol of hope.
The Artwork
Justice League of America: Volume 1, Issue 136 features stunning artwork by Mike Sekowsky and Murphy Anderson. Sekowsky's dynamic pencils and Anderson's iconic inks bring the characters and action to life. The issue is filled with memorable panels, including the Justice League's first encounter with the Thanagarians and Superman's epic battle with H'kat.
The Legacy
Justice League of America: Volume 1, Issue 136 is a landmark issue that helped to define the Silver Age of Comics. The of the new Justice League roster and the epic storyline set the stage for decades of future adventures. This issue remains a must-read for fans of the Justice League and comic book history.
Justice League of America: Volume 1, Issue 136 is a classic comic book that stands the test of time. With its captivating storyline, iconic characters, and stunning artwork, this issue is a testament to the enduring power of the superhero team genre. Whether you are a longtime fan of the Justice League or a new reader discovering the team for the first time, Justice League of America: Volume 1, Issue 136 is an essential addition to your comic book collection.
