A successful publisher of pulp magazines, the Phantom Detective and the Black Bat among them), Ned Pines entered the comics arena late in 1939 developing what came to be known as the Nedor superheroes. His first, short-lived comic bok was called Best Comics and featured the adventures of a presumably Polynesian man named the Red Mask. Best Comics, whose pages were atypically wider than tall, lasted only four issues. Pines’ subsequent anthology titles (Exciting Comics, Startling Comics and Thrilling Comics) were far more successful. Even so, only his most famous heroes, Black Terror and the Fighting Yank, eventually graduated to their own titles. Several of their top adventurers were featured in the company’s all-star title, America’s Best Comics. The flagship title provided the initials that came to characterize the company: ABC. These relatively stable six titles were joined by Wonder Comics in 1944.
The universe of Nedor superheroes was more optimistic than many other heroic realms of the period. Innovative scientists invented methods that allow their transformation into pinnacles of masculine prowess: Black Terror, Captain Future and Doc Strange among them. Several other ABC heroes were the result of scientific accidents (notably American Crusader, American Eagle, Pyroman and Wonderman). The supernatural played its part in the origins of the Fighting Yank and the Ghost, but in the latter case, many of his powers were duplicated by an evil scientist. Wild and improbable inventiveness held sway here, far more than magic.
During World War II, the Nedor superheroes were especially devoted to the war effort. Exceptional patriots included the American Eagle, the Commando Cubs and the Fighting Yank. As the war began to wind down, a new generation of heroes emerged: the Grim Reaper and Wonderman first among them.
As the forties wore on, many Nedor heroes seemed to lose their super-human vigor. The Black Terror and Fighting Yank, who displayed exceptional strength during the war, seemed no more than exceptionally fit towards the end of their careers. The menaces they and other heroes faced also became increasing mundane.
It must be noted that villainy was not as well actualized as heroism in the Nedor Universe. There were relatively few recurrent adversaries that could pose a genuine threat to the heroes they faced. The Faceless Phantom was the most striking in appearance, squaring off against Doc Strange on several occasions. However, Dr. Fenton was the most implacable, traveling across the centuries time and time again in his unending struggle with the Ghost. Dr. Voodoo and his interplanetary band of cronies were perhaps the most memorable, avowed enemies of Brad Spencer, Wonderman. As for sheer fright appeal, the red-skinned and horned Black Satan struck fear in the hearts of the youthful Four Comrades, and with good reason. A mad scientist by the name of Mavelli battled Fighting Yank three times—the closest thing to an arch villain that hero managed.
To its credit, women had ample opportunities to become heroes here. The Woman in Red led the way in the early forties and Miss Masque, Princess Pantha, Kara–Jungle Princess, and Judy of the Jungle represented a post-war heroine boom. Jill Trent, Science Sleuth, was a total original for 1940s comic books, a female inventor. All of them were as beautiful as they were fit. Femme fatales were less common, though the Lady Serpent (foe of the Black Terror) and Lilith, Queen of Pluto (Wonderman villain), fit the bill quite nicely.
Adolescent sidekicks for the Nedor superheroes, on the other hand, were plentiful. The American Crusader was accompanied by the youthful Mickey, the American Eagle Eaglet, the Black Terror Tim, and Doc Strange Mike. There were also two adolescent teams: the Commando Kids and the aforementioned Four Comrades. As for ethnic diversity, one of the Commando Kids was an African-American youth named Pokey Jones. Magnet’s associate, Sidi, was an Congo jungle guide and a better fighter than his boss. Mystico—a revived Egyptian mummy—was Middle Eastern, but notably light-skinned. That was about it.
Chief writer and editor Richard Hughes held sway over the Nedor Universe for many years, telling stories of deranged scientists who had some of the quirkiest schemes to take over the world ever devised. His heroes, on the other hand, were likable if not particularly distinctive. Primary cover artist Alex Schomberg conveyed a vivid action that drew in many a reader, but inside the artwork was often only adequate even if adventures did progress at a brisk pace. When super-heroes ceased to capture the public’s imagination in the later 1940s, jungle heroines and cowboys soon were seen in greater numbers. The colorfully costumed heroes disappeared entirely in 1949, though Pines continued to publish humor, western, war and romance comic books until 1958, the best selling of these being Dennis the Menace.
AMERICAN CRUSADER
AMERICAN CRUSADERSecret Identity: Archibald Masters, science professor at Grand University.
Origin: Masters obtains super-human strength when an experiment with a giant atom smasher he’s invented goes haywire, thus exposing his body to highly charged energy.
Abilities: After the accident, Masters is imbued with superior strength, speed, flight and near invulnerability. He also possesses “super-sensitive” hearing.
Appearance: The American Crusader wears red tights with blue trunks, boots, gloves and cape. He sports a white star grounded in a blue circle on his chest and on the forehead of his black cowl.
Modus operandi: Masters pretends to be weak and lacking in fortitude to cast off suspicions of his other identity. Masters exclaims things like “Mercy me!” and “Gracious, don’t be so rough!” The American Crusader fights the Axis in both America and in occupied Europe.
Friends and Allies:
Mickey Martin. The youthful Martin joins the American Crusader in many of his adventures, beginning in Thrilling 21.
Jane Peters. Masters’ attractive blonde secretary disdains her boss’ bookish, apparently weak ways and is understandably drawn to his alter ego.
Notable Adversaries:
The Black Vulture. Wearing a black vulture head mask, this saboteur heads a small gang and says things like: “No mortal can resist the Black Vulture.” In actuality, the Black Vulture is a small-boned psychologist named Prof. DeGroot, who has been hypnotized into doing destructive acts by Mr. Eyes. Thrilling 26 (1942).
Mr. Eyes. Only the eyes of this master hypnotist show on a small television screen that sits atop an orange radio-like device. Mr. Eyes first controls the Black Vulture, then uses his powers to insure the use of a flying tank against the Crusader. The Japanese operative who acts as Mr. Eyes is never seen, last heard pleading for help when an explosion leaves him trapped inside his broadcasting booth. Thrilling 26-27 (1942).
The Old Man of the Mountains. This mad botanist and pacifist hidden in the mountains creates giant mushrooms that sprout and then explode, sending poisonous spores in the vicinity of army camps. He is aided in his efforts by a German Nazi named Hessman. The Old Man of the Mountains walks with a cane, wears round glasses and has a long, white beard. Thrilling 23 (1941).
Sightings: Thrilling Comics 19-35, 37-39, 41; America’s Best Comics 6; Fighting Yank 18
Active: 1941-46.
The AMERICAN EAGLE
The AMERICAN EAGLESecret Identity: Tom Standish, scientist.
Origin: Exposure to a black ray grants Standish the abilities of a bald eagle, the power of flight and proportional strength.
Abilities: The American Eagle can fly and is a good fighter.
Appearance: The Eagle wears blue tights, with lavender boots, trunks, cape and crested cowl. He sports horizontal red and white stripes across the stomach of his costume.
Modus Operandi: The American Eagle seems to specialize in undoing Axis advances in military technology, bomb delivery systems and the like.
Friends and Allies:
Eaglet. Young costumed aide, with the Eagle from the beginning. Secretly Bud Pierce, the Eaglet’s costume matches his mentor’s except for an eye-mask instead of a cowl.
Notable Adversaries:
The Cat. An “electrical wizard,” the Cat uses a flame ray to rob trains and airplanes. Exciting 44 (1946).
Little Fuehrer and Hans. Pint-sized Nazi genius who transplants the brain cells of Hans, the strongest man in Europe, into his own brain. As such, the Little Fueher has total mental control over the strongman. America’s Best 12 (1945).
The Tuxedo. Clad in a brown tux, the Tuxedo is the mastermind behind the Enigma Raiders, a group of saboteurs who strike with lightning like swiftness, but no apparent pattern, thus sowing a heightened sense of paranoia and fear. Exciting 31 (1944).
Sightings: Exciting Comics 22-27, 29-38, 40-47, 49-50; America’s Best Comics 2, 6-7, 10-12, 14; Fighting Yank 18
Original Chronicler: Richard Hughes (Black Terror, Fighting Yank)
Active: 1942-46
BLACK TERROR
BLACK TERRORSecret Identity: Bob Benton, pharmacist.
Origin: Benton invents “formic ethers” that grant him superior abilities.
Abilities: Benton is extraordinarily strong and nearly impervious to harm.
Appearance: The Terror wears a striking black uniform with white highlights and a skull and crossbones on his chest. He also wears a blue, red-lined cape. In his civilian guise, Benton wears glasses, his black hair slicked back.
Modus Operandi: As Benton, he often feigns cowardice in front of his occasionally disgusted girl friend. Benton uncovers many a plot related to villains trying to obtain dangerous chemicals that are stored, apparently en masse, in his pharmacy.
Friends and Allies:
Tim Roland. AKA Kid Terror. Delivery boy for Benton’s pharmacy and his kid sidekick from the start, Tim uses the same elixir and wears the same striking black, skull and crossbones costume. Together they are known as the Terror Twins.
Jean Starr. Secretary to the mayor and frequent companion to the Terror Twins, Starr is able and willing to take a swing at a bad guy herself. On occasion, her heroic action rescues the pair, but more often, she is the one in need of rescue.
Notable Adversaries:
Barometri. This criminal meteorologist uses his specialized knowledge to become the sinister “weather wrecker.” Exciting 22 (1942).
Dr. Kambi. This mad scientist creates an army of zombies that successfully invades several American cities before the Black Terror stops him. Black Terror 6 (1944).
Hanura. This Japanese scientist utilizes his electro-hypnotizer to place key American military personnel under his control. The distinguished Hanura, with receding, short-cropped hair that is graying at the temples, arrogantly refers to himself in the third person.. Black Terror 9 (1945).
Lady Serpent. Fond of snakes and gems, the higly attractive Lady Serpent uses her special monocle to hypnotize her adversaries like a cobra. She is more than willing to kill one of her gang, if he attempts to wrest control away from her. Black Terror 23, 24 (1948).
Mr. Torch. This giant torch gun wielding villain wears a protective red helmet and a red and yellow streaked asbestos suit that creates the impression of flames. He is secretly a scientist named Dr. Rydenham. Exciting 36 (194 ).
The Puzzler. A vexing trickster who wears a multi-colored costume and vividly striped pants, the Puzzler leaves riddles regarding his impending crimes and taunts the Terror with puns. America’s Best 30 (1949).
The Voice. Robed villain who sports a skull and crossbones insignia on his hood. The victim of gas attacks in World War I, the Voice became an expert in gases and gathered a gang of thugs around him. He threatens American cities with lethal fumes delivered by his auto-gyro planes. The underbelly of these planes display his ominous insignia for all to see in the night sky. Armor beneath his robes protect the Voice from personal attack. Black Terror 11 (1945).
Sightings: Exciting Comics 9-69; America’s Best 1-31; Black Terror 1-27
Original Chronicler: Richard Hughes (Fighting Yank and Pyroman)
Active: 1941-49
CAPTAIN FUTURE
CAPTAIN FUTURESecret Identity: Dr. Andrew Bryant, scientist.
Origin: After being fired by the Pacific Electrical Corporation for lack of results, young Dr. Bryant continues his experiments at home, hoping to “develop an ultra-short wave for the transmission of radio and electrical impulses.” When he tries combining gamma and infrared rays, an explosion results enveloping Bryant in energy and granting him super powers.
Abilities: Bryant is able to fly, possesses superior strength and hearing (via his “radio mind”), and can cast bolts of energy from his hands.
Appearance: Captain Future wears blue trunks with red boots and a form-fitting, short-sleeved red shirt. He wears no mask and sports a yellow lightning bolt insignia from the neck of his shirt to his belt.
Modus Operandi: Bryant must charge his body with atomic energy by use of his “secret beam” to maintain his powers.
Friends and Allies:
Grace Adams. Forming the Agatha Detective Agency with Agatha Adams in Startling 10, Grace is the adventurous romantic interest of Bryant, whom she wishes had “just a bit of Captain Future’s recklessness.”
Agatha Adams. Grace’s detective aunt, a slender, older woman with glasses, Agatha is somewhat eccentric and temperamental.
Notable Adversaries:
Diablo. An evil scientist using four-armed “plasmations” of his own creation to try and take over the world, Diablo later kidnaps Grace Adams, hoping he can commit acts of sabotage without interference from Captain Future. Diablo wears an over-sized blue hat and purple cape that amplify the menace of his long nose and ragged teeth. Startling 16, 17 (1942).
Kato of the Black Dragon Society. A rotund Japanese who initially pretends to be a Korean ally, Kato possesses a serum that, when injected into a black kimona dragon, causes the creature to grow to monstrous size. Startling 18 (1942).
The Purple Plague. Captain Future’s first adversary, the Plague is a purple robed madman who controls a gang of followers as well as a guardian force of killer robots. Startling 1 (1940).
Sightings: Startling Comics 1-40; America’s Best Comics 1-3, 5, 22
Active: 1940-46
The COMMANDO CUBS
The COMMANDO CUBSMembers: Ace Browning, Spud O’Shea, Horace Cosgrove II, Whizzer Malarkey and an African-American youth named Pokey Jones.
Origin: As adolescent boys, the Cubs are too young to join the Army. They find a way to fight the Axis anyway. All four boys enroll in an English school, run by the clueless Professor Musselbownd, to be closer to the action.
Abilities: All of the boys are scrappy fighters.
Appearance: While underage, the Cubs still wore brown military style uniforms, with a red star in either a white or blue background on their flack helmets and when they abandon those, on the right side of their shirts. Ace is conventionally handsome and dark-haired, Spud has red hair and freckles, Horace has brown hair and wears glasses,while Pokey has black hair and wears a plaid, green hat.
Modus Operandi: Ace is clearly the leader of the Cubs. Though Pokey speaks in dialect, he is clearly clever, quipping: “Ah’s doin’ fine, thanks!” as he knocks out a Nazi. “And you?”After the war, the Cubs return to the United States and, after a brief respite, begin squaring off against domestic threats. By this time, Pokey is portrayed in a more respectful fashion, both visually and in his speech.
Friends and Allies:
The Prophet. The mysterious head of the German Underground turns out to be Elsa Rudin, the elegant niece of a local Gestapo chief. Rudin affects vicious Nazi ways as a cover for her real mission. She rejects the Cubs offer to spirit her away, choosing to remain behind to help the Resistance in her country. Thrilling 37 (1943).
Notable Adversaries: Nazis
Sightings: Thrilling Comics 36-52, 55-60, 63, 65; America’s Best Comics 27-28; America’s Biggest Comics Book nn.
Original Chronicler: Richard Hughes (Black Terror and Fighting Yank)
Active: 1943-48
DOC STRANGE
DOC STRANGESecret Identity: Scientist Hugo Strange
Origin: Strange learned how to distill the atoms of the sun into an elixir called Alosun.
Abilities: When he drinks Alosun, Dr. Strange gains superior strength and bullets bounce right off of him.
Appearance: The black-haired Strange has no double identity. He wears the same red t-shirt, blue jodhpurs and brown boots at all times.
Modus Operandi: Strange battles Axis saboteurs and threats throughout the war, switching to purely domestic threats thereafter.
Friends and Allies:
Virginia Thompson. Strange’s fiancée, Thompson is up for any adventure and is also a good shot.
Mike Malone. Youthful sidekick to Strange, Mike doesn’t have special powers, but wears a similar costume anyway. He first appears in Thrilling 24, in 1942.
Notable Adversaries:
The Emperor. Resembling the conquerors of old, the Emperor initially pursues monitary gain from his stone castle hideout in a mountainous region of the U.S. But by his second appearance, the Emperor seeks world-wide domination, enlisting a scientist to transform giant gorillas into “fire-apes” that burn with extreme heat. He also utilizes a device called the Glowworm that bores a tunnel directly to the American department of war. The Emperor wears a large, metal helmet and an orange, wrap-like cape and and sports a long, drooping mustache. Thrilling 24, 25 (1942).
The Faceless Phantom. The Phantom wears a yellowing skull’s head mask, hat and cape and has the ability to disappear at will. When he steals Doc Strange’s Alosun formula and takes large doses of it, the Faceless Phantom becomes the hero’s first and most formidable, recurring foe. In his final confrontation with Strange, the Phantom joins forces with Satani. Thrilling 1, 7, 29 (1940-43).
The Green Ghoul. Villain who sports a white skull mask and a green uniform with a swastika on his chest.. He makes use of a ring comprised of one of the jeweled eyes on an Inca idol. America’s Best 5 (1943).
The Leader. The hooded head of the Nazi Bundists, the Leader is unmasked as an American: Robert W. Marsh. The Leader has a third identity as well: Bill Conway, president of Vigilantes, Inc, a group of Americans ostensibly organized to uphold national ideals. Marsh is handsome and fit, with brown-hair and a mustache. Thrilling 10-12 (1940-41).
Mephisto. A man named Hawkins studies black magic, declaring he’d sell his soul to the devil in order to create an invincibility gas. The gas does transform him: he promptly grows horns and becomes impervious to bullets. He soon adopts a red devil costume, claiming to be Mephisto himself. Upon shooting an adversary, he murmurs: “This is with Mephisto’s love.” Similarly, seeking to rule the Nazis, his declares his motto: “Terror’s the scepter to rule men!” Thrilling 30, 33 (1942-43).
Satani. Initially known only as Z-3, Satani is described as the Axis’ greatest spy. Z-3 only communicates with his agents (the most notable being the Faceless Phantom) via television screen to reduce the chance of betryal. Later, as Satani, he directly confronts Strange in a sabotage plot to blow up a key mine. Satani has a slightly receding hairline, a thinnish face and wears a monocle over his right eye. Thrilling 29, 32 (1942-43).
Vurmann. This Axis scientist is able to use his psychoscope to show on screen what is inside someone’s mind. By adding a “colchicine beam” to the mix, Vurmann can turn a human visualizing a machine into a human-machine hybrid that mindlessly obeys his will. The resulting “mechomen” are truly bizarre in appearance: airplanes and cannons with human arms and legs. America’s Best 4 (1943).
Sightings: Thrilling Comics 1-64; America’s Best Comics 1-23, 27
Original Chronicler: Richard Hughes (Commando Cubs and Fighting Yank) and A. Koster
Active: 1940-47
FIGHTING YANK
FIGHTING YANKSecret Identity: Bruce Carter III.
Origin: When Carter discovers the cloak of his Revolutionary War ancestor of the same name, Carter puts it on and is immediately embued with magical powers.
Abilities: Carter is guided by the ghost of his ancestor, the first Bruce Carter, a Revolutionary War hero. The contemporary Carter looks exactly like his ancestor. When he wears his ancestor’s magic cloak, Carter gains the powers of super-strength and invulnerability. Bullets bounce off his cloak.
Appearance: The Fighting Yank wears blue leggings, lavender/gray boots and Revolutionary War style hat, green cape and white form-fitting shirt with a flag insignia on the front.
Modus Operandi: The spirit of Carter’s ancestor guides him at critical moments in his battles against saboteurs and wrong-doers.
Friends and Allies:
Bruce Carter I. Revolutionary War hero and guiding spirit to his equally stalwart descendent.
Joan Farwell. Bruce Carter III’s romantic interest.
Notable Adversaries:
The Adder. Balding Nazi saboteur with snake-like facial features, including a pair of fangs. The Adder’s most potent weapon is the Cosmatron, which can destroy entire city blocks (and incongruously turn kittens and frogs monstrously large). Startling 17 (1942).
Blitz. Monstrous blond-haired Neanderthal whose freezing touch is a hundred degrees below zero. When a Nazi bomb exploded in the Alps, “out of (a) cave came, Blitz, a remnant of the Ice Age. Centuries in the sub-zero cave had toughened him until he was immune to bullets.” It also enlarged his body and gave him a frigid touch that can even freeze-up entire lakes. Fighting Yank 5 (1943).
The Brain. A disembodied brain housed in an antenna-equipped jar, the Brain heads a Nazi gang of saboteurs and operates out of an American lighthouse. Fighting Yank 9 (1944).
Dr. Fantom. A Nazi master of the occult, Dr. Fantom discovers a pack of werewolves and attempts to manipulate them. He promises to free them of their curse, but only if they use their magical howl to turn American leaders into new pack of “lycans” for Fantom to control. Dr. Fantom sports pointed teeth and is inclined to drool. Startling 18 (1942).
The Gremlin. A small, elf-like figue, the Gremlin is loyal to his “Nazi brood.” Lighter than air, the Gremlin can fly by attaching himself via a leather harness to a small, motorized propeller. The “monster from the realm of death” drops individual bombs on Allied targets or savagely attacks Allied planes with his hatchet. The Gremlin has a large nose and ears and wears a green tunic with yellow sleeves and leggings and a red pixie cap and boots. Startling 22; Fighting Yank 5 (1943).
Mavelli. Striving to rule the world, the mad scientist Mavelli first mobilizes his Faceless Legion, men who have literally lost their facial features and their wills after being engulfed in flaming balls of light (shot from a device of his invention). In his second scheme, Mavelli develops a toxin that can drive men crazy and supplies Nazi minions with blow guns and toxic darts. In his third and final scheme, Mavelli bullies a Nazi scientist named Heinrich into using his invention to “reincarnate the souls of the long dead and bring them back in semin-material shape” to do their bidding. Considerable backstabbing leads to the defeat of both men. Mavelli has receding, unruly dark hair, missing teeth and wears an eyepatch over his left eye. He wears a purple or orange cape over his knee length green robe and trousers. Startling 13-15 (1942).
Nitro-Man. “Probably the fiercest, most dangerous opponent the Fighting Yank has ever met,” this factory worker fell into a vat of nitroglycerine, absorbing five gallons of it inside him. The result is an explosive power that besides destruction can propel him into the air or break his fall. He is dressed in red, short sleeved tights that only go down to his knees. Startling 29 (1944).
Violino. Nazi violinist who, when he plays, his notes “paralyze a man’s senses.” Violino dresses in a green slouch hat and long overcoat. Startling 28 (1944).
Vulture. Bald German and Nazi head of a trio of purple winged saboteurs whose flight is powered by rockets behind their backs. The rest of their unforms are a forest green. Startling 30 (1944).
Sightings: Startling Comics 10-49; America’s Best Comics 9, 11, 13-25
Original Chronicler: Richard Hughes (Black Terror, Commando Cubs) and Jon Blummer
Active: 1941-48
THE GHOST
THE GHOSTCivilian Identity: George Chance, student of the occult.
Origin: Following in the footsteps of his father, Mr. Chance, George is trained in the wisdom of the Asian Indian yogis.
Abilities: The Ghost’s powers are formidable, including the ability to transmute objects into whatever he wants, cause individuals to fall asleep on command, etc.
Appearance: Chance adopts the persona of the Ghost by simply wearing a purple cape over his blue tuxedo.
Modus Operandi: Most of the Ghost’s adventures take place in the past, as he pursues his arch enemy, Professor Fenton (see below). Along the way, he encounters famous historical figures such as Queen Elizabeth, Pocahontas and Abraham Lincoln, as well as a few legendary ones, such as the Roman goddess Diana.
Friends and Allies:
Betty Morris. The Ghost meets Morris back in the 18th century, as told in Thrilling 9. A contemporary of George Washington, the plucky young woman follows Chance into his present and thereafter assists him in his never ending battle with Fenton.
The Swami. The Ghost’s aged yogi mentor can send his protégé back in time with a single word.
Notable Adversaries:
Blackbeard. Famous pirate. Thrilling 16 (1941).
Professor Fenton. Mercenary inventor of a time machine who uses his marvelous invention for financial gain. The brown-haired and goatee wearing scientist has traveled into both the past and the future, though his biggest trick was probably stopping time entirely in Thrilling 25. This little maneuver unleashed all of the evil of the future, namely the living personifications of War, Crime, Tyranny and a skull-faced, knife-wielding Murder. In his final appearance, he must plead for mercy, promising to give up his evil ways for good. Even though his fingers are crossed, Fenton apparently keeps his promise and is not seen again. Thrilling 4-35, 37-38 (1940-43) .
Genghis Khan. Mongol chieftain. Thrilling 30 (1940).
Morgan Le Fay. Evil sorceress opposed by the Ghost and Merlin. Thrilling 5 (1940).
Sightings: Thrilling Comics 3-52; America’s Best Comics 9; Black Terror 7
Active: 1940-46
GRIM REAPER
GRIM REAPERSecret Identity: Bill Norris, investment lawyer.
Origin: Unknown.
Abilities: The Grim Reaper is an excellent fighter.
Appearance: Norris wears a costume with a skull and crossbones cape.
Modus Operandi: The Grim Reaper initially fights the Axis abroad. But with Wonder 9 the war is over and the Reaper now faces a series of unique villains.
Friends and Allies:
Doctor Barlow. An old friend, Barlow is the first Norris calls upon returning to the States. Unfortunately Barlow is brutally murdered by Mr. Meek.
Notable Adversaries:
The Chameleon. A green-garbed villain with a reptilian-like crest on the top of his hood, the Chameleon creates the illusion of being in several places at once by hiring three underlings to dress in identical costumes. He also changes colors to blend in with his surroundings. Wonder 15 (1947).
The Crying Bandit. A practical joker loses his job and his apartment due to his practical jokes and decides his luck will be better if he tries to make people cry (through robbery and mayhem), rather than laugh. Wonder 10 (1947).
King Cactus. A cattle rustler in the Western badlands stumbles upon a gold mine. He declares himself King Cactus, wears a golden crown, and causes train wrecks to supply his mine with an ever increasing number of enslaved miners. Wonder 13 (1947).
Mr. Meek. Meek, a seemingly mild-mannered man, is actually a ruthless killer who wields a rapier-sharp cane. “Tsk, tsk,” he laments upon confronting the Reaper, “it’s indeed a pity that a fellow of your caliber should meet such an untimely end! Oh well, I’ll finish you off and be on my way!” Meek kills a friend of Norris’ to obtain a liquid capable of melting any metal in existence. Scrawny, but nicely dressed in a suit, bowtie and bowler hat, Meek also wears a monocle. Wonder 9 (1946).
Sightings: Fighting Yank 7; America’s Biggest Comics Book nn; Wonder Comics 1-17
Original Chronicler: Richard Hughes (Black Terror and Fighting Yank)
Active: 1944-48
KARA, The Jungle Princess
KARA, The Jungle PrincessOriginal Identity: Blonde-haired American army nurse Lt. Jane “Jinx” Howell
Origin: When Jane and her fiancé Major Kit Kendall crash land in an African jungle and help some of the people there, a black shaman named Baldayo gives Jane a paper amulet and a powder that will “guard her from harm.” Having consumed the powder, bullets bounce off of her and she is indeed impervious to all harm. Jinx and Kit then discover the immortal jungle city of Arohiti rising from a lake in a hidden valley. Jinx is declared the Princess Kara of Arohiti, on the basis of her appearance and the amulet she carries. Abilities: Kara is impervious to harm and now immortal, as are all of her people. She is a reasonably good fighter. Major Kit is far better in combat, but as a mortal, he is also at greater risk.
Attire: As Arohiti’s blonde-haired princess, Kara wears a variety of flowing and revealing outfits, usually red in color.
Modus Operandi: While the people of Arohiti are portrayed as brown-skinned in their first appearance, thereafter they are portrayed as white. Together Kara and Kit face the continuing menace of Targala who seeks to take over the city.
Friends and Allies:
Major Kit Kendall. Jane’s fiancé in her old life and declared by Kara to be the city’s new chief of warriors in Arohiti. Kendall is muscular and fit, dressed only in a blue trunks, belt, boots and armbands. In one of the later adventures, the priest of the moon god grants Kit’s spirit the power to leave his body to discover what is happening to Kara.
Baldayo. The elderly black medicine man who grants Kara her immortality after she assists his people. He hopes to see his beloved lost city of Arohiti before he dies, but it is not to be.
Supreme Priest of the Moon God. Kara’s chief Arohitian advisor and religious rival to Targala. The moon priest presides over the sacred narahvi plant which provides signs and omens by the positioning of its leaves. The priest can also understand messages for the sared toucan and other birds.
Notable Adversaries:
Eagle Men. Led by Ageelo until his death, the Eagle Men are winged warriors who oppose the city of Arohiti. Ageelo allies himself with Targala, and when he is killed, Targala takes charge of the Eagle Men. Exciting 45-46 (1946).
Lumu Warriors. A black tribe of warriors who live on an island where evolution has led to strange, large plants and vicious animals that seem to act in concert with the Lumu warriors. The Lumus are led by Manamono, who is shot by Major Kit in an initial skirmish. He pledges his loyalty to Targala when the priest heals his wounds with his secret knowledge. Exciting 47-48 (1946).
Targala. Last in a line of evil priests of the ape-god, Targala seeks to conquer the ancient city. Targala is immortal like Kara and operates out of the fire-blackened Temple of Doom. He is bare-chested and wears a red Egyptian-style headdress and sari with blue wrist and neck adornments. He first transforms a group of unlucky captives into an army of Ant Men and later relies of Venomo and his Serpenton troops. Exciting 40-49 (1945-46).
Venomo. Targala’s ally, chief of the Serpenton army, bare-chested men who wear green-scaled trunks and skull-caps complete with serpent heads. Exciting 43-44, 49 (1946).
Sightings: Exciting Comics 39-49; Fighting Yank 21
Active: 1945-47
MISS MASQUE
MISS MASQUESecret Identity: Diana Adams, wealthy socialite
Origin: No origin given, though it appears Diana became bored with the social whirl and sought excitement as Miss Masque.
Abilities: She has no extraordinary powers but is a reasonably good fighter.
Appearance: Adams fights crime as Miss Masque in an evolving red outfit that soon featured a bare midriff and a slouch hat with feather.
Modus Operandi: Diana happens upon mysteries and other criminal activity in her life as a member of high society. She then investigates them as Miss Masque.
Friends and Allies:
Russ Bowman. Handsome reporter friend of Diana’s.
Belinda. Diana’s African-American maid, a fan of Crimson Crime Detective magazine.
Notable Adversaries:
The Devil. Paul Miller dons a devil suit to kill the father of his would be sweetheart because he opposed the relationship. Fighting Yank 22 (1947).
Sightings: Exciting Comics 51-54; America’s Best Comics 23-31; Fighting Yank 22, 24; Black Terror 21
Active: 1946-49
THE ORACLE
THE ORACLEOther identity: Bob Paxton
Origin: “Nazi cunning has devised a gas to destroy human senses, but the accident of a rusted container gives Bob Paxton prophetic powers.”
Abilities: Besides having visions of the future, Paxton is good with his fists.
Appearance: The Oracle doesn’t hide his other identity and dresses in conventional street clothes.
Modus Operandi: The Oracle devotes himself to anticipating and thwarting Axis sabotage.
Friends and Allies:
Lana Owens. Paxton’s girl friend who assists him in his efforts.
Notable Adversaries:
The Ape. Hoping to mimic the Oracle’s increased senses by injecting a gorilla endocrine serum into American soldiers, Dr. Fawcett accidentally imbibes his concoction when Nazis storm his lab. Fawcett is transformed into a gorilla but retains his intelligence and ability to speak. Now craving destruction, the Ape takes over the gang of saboteurs and suddenly takes on the Nazi cause. He appears to die after his second battle with the Oracle. Startling 21-22 (1943).
The Bat. By a freak accident, Nazi scientists transport a sinister bronze-skiinned man from the future who sports green glider wings, trunks and boots. Possessing enormous strength as well, the Bat joins the Nazis in their efforts. He is never apprehended. Startling 23 (1943).
Sightings: Startling Comics 20-25, 27, 29-32, 35-40; Fighting Yank 11
Active: 1943-46.
PRINCESS PANTHA
PRINCESS PANTHAOriginal Identity: Unknown–she performs as Princess Pantha.
Origin: A circus performer and animal trainer, Princess Pantha ends up stranded in Africa when natives attack her safari and she goes missing. Unbeknownst to her friends and employer back in the states, Pantha is adapting the the jungle remarkably well. She must survive by her wits and physical abilities, which are further honed by the experience. When Dane Hunter arrives to “rescue” her, Pantha enlists his help in completing her original purpose in coming to Africa, to capture a giant gorilla.
Abilities: Pantha is an excellent fighter, adept at using either a gun or a knife in the middle of a fight.
Appearance: When she goes into action, Pantha wears a spotted animal skin bikini. While performing at the circus, she wears a variety of skimpy outfits.
Modus Operandi: Pantha continues to travel with the circus and as a result has adventures in the United States as well. Pantha is willing to use a gun or knife on jungle animals out of control. She obtains a leave of absence from the circus on other occasions to assist others in need.
Friends and Allies:
Dane Hunter. Pantha’s romantic interest, an author of travel books who initially came to Africa to rescue her when she was declared missing. Realizing Pantha has become more adept at jungle fighting than her and accepting her direction, Hunter declares happily, “I think I could get used to taking orders from her!” Hunter subsequently asks Pantha to marry her and the Princess agrees, just “not yet.” She feels she would need to give up her career if she married and she isn’t ready to do so. Occasionally, while in Africa with Pantha, Hunter dons a matching leopard skin loin cloth.
Gilt-Edge Gates. Cigar-smoking owner and ringmaster of National circus and Pantha’s employer.
Audo, King of the Jungle. A blind, white teen metes out jungle justice in only a loin cloth. Audo has a large birthmark on his chest. Pantha provides an opportunity for his Western education. Thrilling 69 (1948).
Notable Adversaries:
Bobo. The American-educated son of a tribal chief, Bobo shows his disdain for his “savage” people by betraying their interests and shooting his own father. He is ultimately reformed by Pantha. Thrilling 65 (1948).
M’Gana. Violent giant gorilla that is the object of a gorilla cult that reveres him. Pantha initially came to Africa to capture him and take him back to America as a circus attraction. After several frightening encounters, Pantha succeeds. M’Gana is last scene struggling to break free of a barred cage as circus goers gawk at him. Thrilling 57-60 (1947).
Senor Piranha. A legend among the native peoples of the Amazon, Senor Piranha (secretly Jeff Masters) earned his name by feeding his enemies to his voracious pets. Piranha is a barrel chested man with a short, graying hair and neatly trimmed mustache. Piranha often goes about shirtless. Thrilling 68 (1948).
Sightings: Thrilling Comics 56-74
Active: 1946-49
PYROMAN
PYROMANSecret Identity: Dick Martin, an electrical engineering student
Origin: Martin is framed for a deadly act of arson he didn’t commit and falsely sent to the electric chair. Earlier, some former friends associated with the real arsonist tried and failed to electrocute him. Apparently inoculated against electric current, Martin survives his “execution,” storing thousands of volts of electricity inside his body as a result.
Abilities: Pyroman is able to project bolts of electrical energy from his bare hands. He is also able to fly by magnetizing himself to distant pieces of metal.
Appearance: Pyroman wears a red, skintight uniform with a gray/lavender cowl with small red electric bolts projecting up from either forehead.
Modus Operandi: As Dick Martin, he is still wanted by the police.
Friends and Allies:
Professor Clark. Martin’s mentor and friend, Clark helps the hero understand his powers and his various research activities often fuel Pyroman’s adventures.
Joyce Clark. The professor’s daughter and Martin’s romantic interest. She doesn’t know his secret.
Notable Adversaries:
Dizasta. A caped saboteur and master arsonist, Dizasta commits the crime of which Martin is accused. After Martin’s first encounter with Dizasta, the villain manages to escape. Something of a dilettante, Dizasta smokes his cigarettes from a long holder. Startling 18 (1942).
Schnubel. Bald Nazi scientist whose emaciated face resembles a skull. With Hitler’s backing, Schubel invents a machine that transports the climate of Mars to America, with the intended, disastrous effects. America’s Best 3 (1942).
The Steel Nazi. Nazi agent named Ornitz is injected with a stolen leprothix bacteria that converts iron into chemical substances andsomewhat inexplicably turns his body into an indestructible steel like substance. Ornitz’ bald head similarly takes on a hard-edged, almost metallic appearance. Ornitz then injects other Nazis with his blood, transforming them into similar metallic dynamos. Ornitz is defeated when he falls on a rusty spike, rust being his nemesis. Ornitiz is only called the Steel Nazi on the splash page of the story, which is also the only place he is portrayed wearing a steel tunic. Startling 19 (1943).
Tyrant King. AKA Rex Topsed, the Tyrant King utilizes a machine that can deprive entire cities of their electric power. He and his gang wear insulated suits that protect them from electric current and, by extension, Pyroman’s powers. America’s Best 18 (1946).
The Unseen. Large, misshapen villain whose long hair entirely covers his face. Embittered by the way society has treated him, the Unseen seeks ways in which to destroy all matter and thus the world he hates. America’s Best 19-20 (1946).
Sightings: Startling Comics 18-26, 28-43; America’s Best Comics 3-8, 10, 12-13, 17-22, 24, 28-29
Original Chronicler: Richard Hughes (Black Terror and Fighting Yank)
Active: 1942-49
THE WOMAN IN RED
THE WOMAN IN REDSecret Identity: Peggy Allen, police operative.
Origin: “To conceal her mission, (Allen) determines to don a disguise whenever investigating.” No more specific motivation is detailed.
Abilities: As the Woman in Red, Allen carries a gun. Given her police training, she is a good fighter and an excellent shot.
Appearance: Allen fights criminals in a long red skirt, long-sleeved blouse and hood. Later in her career, Allen changed her outfit significantly: eliminating the hood, changing to a shorter skirt and adding a red cape.
Modus Operandi: Allen is described by her superior as “the best undercover worker in this department.”
Friends and Allies:
Chief. The police commissioner and Allen’s superior. In later years, the commissioner knows and accepts that Peggy also operates as the Woman in Red.
Notable Adversaries:
The Black Death. This homicidal criminal dresses in a form-fitting black costume and mask with a skull insignia on his chest. The Black Death patterns himself after a murderous character in a play by the same name. Thrilling 10 (1940).
Dr. Phineas Peble. Bogus psychic investigator. Thrilling 24 (1942).
Sightings: Thrilling Comics 2-18, 20-22, 24-30, 34-35, 38, 46; America’s Best Comics 1-2
Original Chronicler: George Mandel
Active: 1940-45
WONDERMAN
Secret Identity: Brad Spencer
Origin: Spencer was accidentally exposed to voltage of unknown origin.
Powers: His exposure to this voltage granted him powers of superior strength and virtual invulnerability.
Appearance: As Wonderman, Brad’s costume is a colorful mix of green, yellow and red.
Modus Operandi: Spencer operates in the present, but most of his adventures are on other planets.
Friends and Allies:
Carol Paige. Spencer’s romantic interest accompanied him on most of his adventures. Despite having no special powers, she wore a matching, if considerably more skimpy costume.
Robo Roy. Wonder 19-20 (1948).
Notable Adversaries:
Dr. Voodoo. Short, bald-headed mad scientist with pointed ears, long goatlike goatee and two wispy clumps of dark hair that flare upward like horns. Voodoo created the vacuum spiral that allows Spencer and others to travel between planets. He also has mastered hypnotism and is able to create monsters. He consistently allies himself with Lilith and the Immortal Emperor. Mystery 1-2, Wonder 9-17 (1944-48).
Immortal Emperor. Born in ancient Assyria, the emperor is a peculiar-looking villain, his face entirely hidden by a cylindrical helmet that looks disarmingly like an oblong, yellow smiley face. The emperor is able to summon his “sinister death cult” composed of various warrior spirits from the past, which include the barbaric Huns and winged harpies. Mystery 1, 4; Wonder 9-11, 13-17 (1944-48).
Lilith, Princess of Pluto. Veiled, raven-haired beauty who wears a serpent-shaped tiara. Also known as the “dark goddess” and referred to respectfully by Dr. Voodoo as “your fearful highness.” Lilith imperiously expects Voodoo and the Immortal Emperor to subjugate new worlds for her to rule. When her initial “dark realm” is destroyed—a small satellite called Lilith that orbited the moon—she recalls how some exiles of that realm had once settled on Pluto. Lilith and her allies relocate there, where her former minions welcome her readily as their leader. Lilith schemes with her allies to conquer the earth and ultimately the solar system. Mystery 1, 4; Wonder 9-15, 17-18 (1944-48).
Solaris. Later addition to Dr. Voodoo’s company of villains, Solaris is the leader of the Thermodons who live in Pyropolis, a city within the sun. The Thermodons roar into battle like human fireballs. His heat-based powers provide a counterpoint to the frigid chill of Pluto. Wonder 12, 14-16 (1947-48).
Sightings: Complete Book of Comics and Funnies nn; Mystery Comics 1-4; Wonder Comics 9-20
Active: 1944-48
Other Nedor superheroes, non-costumed heroes and villains
Ace Buckley
Inventor of a time machine, Buckley travels back in time with his companion, Toni Stark, to meet such famous historical figures as Pocahontas, Blackbeard and Richard the Lion-Hearted. Startling Comics 3-10 (active 1940-41).
The Cavalier
Secretly Rance Raleigh, owner of a curio shop, the Cavalier adopts the costume of his namesake to do battle with criminals. He is alerted to danger whenever the portrait of his 17th century ancestor, the Duc de Chantrey, frowns. Thrilling Comics 53-54; Fighting Yank 25 (active 1946-48).
Crash Carter, Air Cadet
Carter is a flight student at the Army Air School. He is, accompanied on adventures by fellow cadets, Stew and Looie. Exciting Comics 16-21, 23, 25-28, 31-39, 48-53 (active 1942-47).
The Crime Crushers
Steve (tall, strong and handsome) and Ploopie (short, overweight with glasses) are partners in the financially struggling “We-Do-It Boys” Detective Agency. Black Terror 1-4, 6, 13, 16-19, 24; Exciting Comics 28-32, 36-41, 50-59 (active 1942-48).
Dan Duffy, College Athlete
Duffy is the star athlete of Carson College. He is often accompanied by his girl friend, Marcia. Between games, he unravels criminal schemes. Thrilling Comics 8-25, 27-29 (active 1940-42). Adversaries: Tom Thumb. Criminal “midget menace” from the circus involved in a scheme to steal radium. Thumb is assisted by his strong man associate, Hercules, but both work for a behind the scenes mastermind, a professor of criminology named Welton. Thrilling 23 (1941). Torelli. Thrilling 8-9 (1940).
Don Davis, Espionage Ace
The handsome, brown-haired Davis performs special missions for the State Department. Startling Comics 2-9, 11-21, 25-28, 32-33, 35, 37, 39-40, 48; America’s Best Comics 1-2; Fighting Yank 8, 15 (active 1940-47).
The Four Comrades
Tip Adams heads up this team of adolescent fighters who wear blue and red costumes. The other members of the group are Buzz Brandon, Pudge O’Connor and the brilliant teen inventor, Tommy Tompkins. The Four Comrades primarily square off against gangsters and saboteurs, initially coming together to save Tommy from a kidnapping plot engineered by Black Satan. Startling Comics 16-31, 33-34, 36 (1942- ). Adversaries: Black Satan. Resembling the devil himself, this bald villain is portrayed alternatively with white or bright red skin, a forked goatee, pointy ears and two small, white horns. He also dresses in red-tinged black, form-fitting costume, wears a green cape and carries a pitchfork! As a saboteur, Black Satan’s ambitions include “spread(ing) a reign of terror America will never forget.” Startling 16-18, 20-21, 23 (1942-43).
Hale of the Herald
Ace reporter of the Herald, George Hale obtains a “mystic invisibility formula.” Converting the chemicals of the formula into “disappearance pills,” Hale can become invisible by swallowing them. Hale often includes a woman reporter named Vickie on his adventures who knows of his special abilities. Thrilling Comics 25-33, 36, 38; Fighting Yank 3, 10; Black Terror 8 (active 1942-44).
The Dark Archer
Clad in dark green Robin Hood garb, with a black eyemask and purple cape, the Dark Archer actually prefers killing others by stabbing them with his razor-sharp arrows. He turns out to have been a former acrobat. Thrilling 26 (1942).
Jill Trent, Science Sleuth
The blonde-haired Trent is an attractive amateur detective and inventor who uses her knowledge of science to solve crimes. Her inventions include infra-radiant magnifying glasses that allow the wearer to see through objects and a radioactive thorium fabric that is indestructible and (when not sheethed in lead) can melt metal. Jill is accompanied by her best friend, the bright but not brilliant Daisy Smythe. Smythe is also attractive, but has dark, curly hair. Fighting Yank 6, 9; Wonder Comics 8-20 (active 1943-48).
Jimmy Cole, Boy Sleuth
Dark-haired, red-blooded American boy, Jimmy Cole is an amateur detective who’s also good with his fists. Jimmy is reluctantly accompanied on his adventures by his equally handsome and fit tutor, Tom. Thrilling Comics 32-36, 45-46,48-49, 52-55, 62, 64, 69; America’s Best Comics 4; Fighting Yank 3-4; Black Terror 10 (active 1943-48).
Judy of the Jungle
This raven-haired beauty became an avenging angel after her father was murdered in the jungle. Judy is aided by Kala, a black panther, and an Anglo hunter named Pistol Roberts. Roberts was initially sent to stop Judy from killing her father’s murderer. Exciting Comics 55-69 (active 1947-49). Adversaries: Kurt Von Saber. Murderer of Judy’s father. Exciting 56-57 (1947). The Leopard Queen. Female villain who wields poisoned talons. The Leopard Queen dies when she falls on her own claws. Exciting 66 (1949).
Jungle Jim
Jim Bradley, better known simply as Jungle Jim, was better known in newspaper adventures. But adventures nowhere else seen were also featured in comic books. Jungle Jim’s adventures here are centered in Malaya, Indonesia and Singapore. He is assisted by his native friend, Kolu. Jungle Jim 11-15 (1949-50). Adversaries: Mr. Ee. Stout outheast Asian crime lord who wears a green turban and eccentric goggles. Jungle Jim 11 (1949).
Larry North, U.S.N
North is a naval lieutenant, espionage agent and pilot. He is assisted in his mission by a female agent named Betty. Exciting Comics 10-15, 17, 19-22, 24-28, 33-35, Fighting Yank 3 (active 1941-44).
The Liberator
Decidedly mousy Nelson Drew, a chemistry professor at Claflin College, discovers an ancient Egyptian chemical named “lamesis” while doing research on Egyptian poisons. The chemical is said to transform a man into his physical ideal. Nursing an unrequited crush on one of his students, a pretty co-ed named Annabel Evans, Drew decides to mix up a batch and try it. Transformed into an unrecognizably muscular version of himself, and now in tattered clothes, Drew is unexpectedly visited by Annabel and her athletic boy friend, who just happens to be wearing a red, white and blue costume for a masquerade party. Drew knocks out his romantic rival, steals his costume, and runs at sixty miles an hour to consult a colleague about his new condition. Said colleague is in the process of being killed by Axis spies and the costumed Liberator is found with the body. Thereafter, the Liberator is wanted by the police even as he uses his new found powers to fight for America. Drew’s transformation must be renewed each time he wants to become the Liberator, a painful process that creates a sense in him that he has become another man entirely, and which only lasts for a limited time. Exciting Comics 15-30, 34-35 (active 1941-44).
The Lone Eagle
The Lone Eagle is a handsome, brown-haired aviator ace who first joins the R.A.F. in England in order to get an early start at fighting Nazis. The Lone Eagle is drawn in the forties as a white man, but portrayed as Native American in a recent retrospective portrayal of the character. This seems unlikely as, upon encountering some Venezuelan Indians on a mission, the Lone Eagle quips: “Off the reservation, eh?” In his final adventure, he is known as Captain Eagle. Thrilling Comics 3-20, 22-31, 33-35, 40-45, 47-49, 51-55, 61, 63; America’s Best Comics 5 (active 1940-47).
Lucky Lawrence, Leatherneck
Lawrence punches a guy who declares that “democracy’s through” at a street-corner meeting. When he has to appear before a judge, Lawrence claims patriotism as his motive, but the judge declares that true patriotism was what made men fight like the Marines at Wake Island. Inspired by the judges words, Lawrences asks to be released from the charges facing him to join the Marines. Lawrence is soon a “daredevil” gyrene going on missions with his three pals, Tubby, Sarge and Noodle. Thrilling Comics 30-34, 37, 39-45, 47, 50-51; America’s Best Comics 8 (1942-45).
The Magnet
AKA Grant Halford, “all-around athlete” and inventor of the Geo-locator, capable of pinpointing the whereabouts of anyone on the planet. Halford wears no costume and uses his fists to defeat the bad guys he locates. Accompanied by his romantic interest Debby and an African associate named Sidi. Originally hailing from the Belgian Congo, Sidi wears a spotted leopard skin loincloth and headdress and looks rather more muscular and heroic than his boss. When the occasion calls for it he also straps a gun and holster across his waist. Sidi’s English is spotty, but he is an effective fighter and tracker. Complete Book of Comics and Funnies nn; Mystery Comics 1-4 (active 1944). Adversaries: Crimson Conqueror. Unreliable agent of the Third Reich, the Conqueror dresses in a bright red costume that covers his head, but not his face. He sports a black domino mask and mustache and has political ambitions. He is ultimately defeated by Sidi, not the Magnet. Complete Book nn, Mystery 1 (1944).
The Mask
“Blinded by gangsters, District Attorney Tony Colby regains his sight through the aid of pretty Carol Smith. Still pretending to be a blind man, in secret he is the Mask, arch-enemy of crime.” He is also wanted by the police. As the Mask, Colby wears a purple hood, initially horned, that reveals his nose, mouth and jawline. Colby is assisted in his efforts by Carol Smith (whose father was killed by the same gangsters who blinded him), Butch, a two-fisted, action-loving taxi driver, and a smooth-talking fellow named Silk. Exciting Comics 1-20 (active 1940-42). Adversaries: The Gentleman. A talented jewel thief, the Gentleman enjoys warning authorities ahead of time of his intended crimes. The youthful criminal is also skilled at disguise, posing as an old woman who hides a stolen necklace inside “her” dog’s collar. Exciting 15 (1941). The Harlequin. Constantly grinning, the Harlequin is a sharp-featured killer who murders leaders in the defense industry. He wears a purple suit and a matching oversized hat and overcoat. It turns out the Harlequin wears a mask and is actually a exporter named Richter who used his business to run munitions overseas. Exciting 17 (1942).
Mekano
Remote controlled robot wonder created by Bill Foster, a young electrical engineer. At the end of Mekano’s lone recorded adventure, Foster muses, “Who knows—I may even give him an intelligence of his own!” Foster is assisted by an enthusiastic, if impulsive youth named Tommy Clark. Mekano is made of dark gray iron and has a primitive jagged edge mouth, scowling slits for eyes and empty triangular space for a nose, all of which gives him a rather menacing appearance. Wonder Comics 1 (active 1944).
The Mysterious Dr. X
“Master of the mysteries of occult science,” Dr. X maintains an observatory and lab in the Andes. All of his work moved towards his greatest experiment, attempting to project the body of his niece Cynthia into planetary space. When Cynthia’s astral form in threatened on the planet Inus, X sends the astral body of her fiancé, stalwart Bob Stone to the rescue. Dr. X has a severely receding hairline, with long, free hanging white sideburns and a two-pointed goatee that lend his appearance a menacing quality. Other equally risky experiments follow. Startling Comics 1, 4 (active 1940).
Mystico
When a scientist tries to reanimate an Egyptian mummy, the machine explodes and kills the madman. But the revived mummy was a sorcerer in ancient Egypt and decides to use his knowledge of magic (primarily telekinesis at first and later transforming objects) to fight crime as Mystico the Wonder Man. One at least one occasion, Mystico summons heroic ghosts from the past to aid his effort. Mystico wears conventional, modern day suits. Startling Comics 1-9, 11-17; Fighting Yank 1 (active 1940-42). Adversaries: Dr. Slade. “Crazed inventor of the vita-rays, possesses the secret of restoring life to the dead.” Slade, a bald scientist sporting glasses and a rounded goatee, hopes to resurrect “an army of millions.” He ends up restoring an ancient Egyptian mummy to life, thus creating Mystico the Wonder Man. Presumed dead after his first encounter with Mystico, he returns with the skin of his face obliterated and a white skull like visage. Startling 1, 2 (1940).
The Phantom Detective
Donning top hat, mask, cape and tails, playboy Richard Curtis Van Loan fights crime as the Phantom Detective. His alternative identity is only known by his adoptive father, publisher of the Daily Clarion, Frank Havens. Thrilling Comics 53-62, 65-70; America’s Best Comics 26 (active 1946-49).
Red Mask
The Red Mask is a dark-skinned, presumably Polynesian mystery man of unspecified ethnicity who operates out of a secret city located on a Pacific island. He dresses in white (shirt, trousers and cumberbund) save for his red mask. Red Mask controls vast wealth tucked away in the Grotto of Jewels, which is guarded by a red dragon, and has servants at his island compound. The Red Mask carries a gun and dagger. He’s infatuated with a woman named Nina Trent. Best Comics 1-4 (active 1939-40). Adversaries: Robert Fear. Suave, mustache-wearing scoundrel who also seeks to win the affections of Nina. He pretends to be helping her find the desperately ill Jason Armitage, but actually works to thwart such a discovery. Red Mask regards Fear as a traitor. Best Comics 1-4 (1939-40).
The Scarab
AKA Peter Ward, archaeologist. Rubs a magic ring that transforms him into the red costumed Scarab. As the Scarab, Ward has powers of superior strength, flight, and invulnerability. The Scarab is aided by an intelligent black cat named Akh-tu-men, the reincarnation of a priest who guarded the pyramid tomb of an ancient pharaoh named An-Meses II. Startling Comics 34; Exciting Comics 42-48; Black Terror 20 (active 1945-47). Adversaries: Aton. Head of a band of Arab vigilantes called the Masked Marauders. Aton attempts the kidnapping of the Scarab’s cat in hopes of gaining access to the treasures of a pharonic tomb. Exciting 45 (1945). Nubo. Heroic, “simple-minded”African warrior who wears a silver knight’s uniform. Mistakenly fights against the Scarab. Nubo is an agent of Rajad, the Arab leader of an Egyptian “tribe” friendly with the British. Exciting 44 (1946).
Sergeant Bill King
Sergeant King is bewildered why military bigwigs want to see a fighting man like him. The presiding officer informs him that “our spy system has broken down! A brave, resourceful soldier like you can help us!” And so he does, all without a promotion! King also proves to be the best pilot in his squad. Exciting Comics 1-21, 23-27, 29-39, 42-43, 48-50 (1940-46).
Spectro the Mind Reader
“Robert Morgan, alias Spectro the Mind Reader, direct descendent of an accused sorcerer who was burned for black magic in the 17th century, actually has the power to read the mind of anyone he can see.” As Spectro, the brown-haired Morgan is a stage magician who also devotes himself to elimination of crime. If his mind-reading powers fail him, Spectro is “forced to unleash a powerful pair of fists.” Spectro wears a red cape studded with yellow crescent moons and stars over his tuxedo. He is aso called a “master of magic” in a few adventures. Wonder Comics 1-5, 7-8, 16; Black Terror 25 (active 1944-48).
The Sphinx
Ellsworth Forrester, wealthy socialite, dons a tuxedo and a black eye mask to fight crime. He appears at times to possess super-human strength, able to tear a bank vault door off of its hinges. The source of his abilities are never revealed, but may be of Egyptian origin given his name, which similarly was never explained. The Sphinx’s romantic interest, Lila Blake, learns his true identity in Exciting 5. Exciting Comics 2-14 (active 1940-41).
Ted Crane
Crane, a globe-trotting adventurer, first gains fame when he helps British authorities and the scholarly Professor Hawkins discover a city of gold in the deepest jungles of Africa. His romantic interest, Betty Hawkins, and he share a finder’s fee from the government which finances further adventures around the world. Exciting Comics 2-22 (active 1940-42). Adversaries: Dr. Cobra. “Scourge of the Orient,” Dr. Cobra’s criminal interests span from Saigon to Tibet. Probably Chinese in origin, Cobra seems quite willing to sell his services to Axis foreign powers for a price. Cobra is balding on top and has a neatly trimmed mustache and arching eyebrows. Exciting 14-22 (1941-42).
Thesson, Son of the Gods
When John Thesson, descendent of the Greek demigod Theseus, discovers the magic ring of Poseidon, he gains all the powers of his ancestor. Thesson primarily possesses superior strength and does not wear any special uniform in pursuing his pledge to “combat all evil forces.” Exciting Comics 2-8 (active 1940-41).
Tim Tyler
Young Western cowboy who spent his early years in an orphanage with his lifelong friend, Spud. Tyler’s adventures are more prominently featured in a long-running comic trip. Tim Tyler, Cowboy 11-18 (1948-50).
Tygra
Sent by her physician father to Africa to retrieve a potent curative, Lynn Thomas’ plane is brought down by a fierce tribe in the region, the Flame People. There, Lynn ingests the powerful vitamin serum (called Autorene), which increases her strength to that of twenty men. The Flame People subsequently adopt her as their queen. Startling Comics 45-53 (active 1947-48).
Zudo the Jungle Boy
A blond-haired jungle boy garbed only in a loincloth, Zudo lives and fights evil-doers in Africa, aided in his efforts by Lao the lion. Complete Book of Comics and Funnies nn; America’s Biggest Comics Book nn; Mystery Comics 1-4 (active 1944).
ALSO: Bart Bradley, four letter star working his way through Jefferson University as a cub reporter, Wonder 8-10; America’s Best 30-31 (1946-49); Biff Powers, big game hunter for the Carson Circus, Startling 2, 4-17 (1940-42); Bob and Beano, two adventure-hungry friends, one handsome and athletic, the other slender and bespectacled, Startling 1- (1940); Chips, “the fighting K-9,” Complete Book of Comics and Funnies nn (1944); The Crime Professor, Black Terror 22 (1948); Dan Williams, private investigator in good with officers on the beat, reporters and his attractive secretary, Miss Adams, Exciting 1-14 (1940-41); Detective O’Hara, Thrilling 6 (1940); Detective Sergeant Burke, first name Tom, two-fisted, often shirtless plain-clothes detective, Startling 1-3, 5-13 (1940-42); Front-Page Peggy, blonde-haired reporter for the Daily Ledger, Startling 41-44, Fighting Yank 27 (1946-49); Happy Lanning of the Air Patrol, Thrilling 7 (1940); Galahad Grant, private investigator, Startling 41-43 (1946-47); G-Man Dalton, “famous” secret agent of the F.B.I., Startling 1-10, 14-15 (1940-42); “Gunner” Thompson, “champion pistol shot” and independent operative for hire, Exciting 1 (1940); Hy Hardy, “ace newsreel cameraman,” Exciting 1 (1940); Jefferson Jones, Startling 44-53; America’s Best 29 (1947-48); Johnny Dale, Secret Agent, Exciting 62-67 (1948-49); Nickie Norton of the Secret Service, male operative assisted by Lefty, a slang-talking youth, Thrilling 1, 6-18, 21-24 (1940-42); Pepper Swift, Exciting 21-25 (1942-43); Sandy of the Circus, Fighting Yank 26 (1948); Scoop Langdon, police reporter, Startling 1-3 (1940); (1943-45); Strut Simmons, Exciting 54-61 (1947-48); The Supersleuths, impulsive Sam Johnson and cautious Stan McGillicuddy own the Neversleep Detective Agency, Thrilling 35, Wonder 2-4, 6-8, 17, Fighting Yank 12, 16-17, 19-20 (1943-48);Terry Moore, female police officer, America’s Best 29 (1949); Tex Marlin, crime-smashing stuntman, Fighting Yank 22 (1947); Three Comrades, Cal Collins (pipe-smoking leader), Paul “Books” Stone (glasses-wearing brains) and “Lucky” (irreverent red-haired rogue), Thrilling 2-5 (1940); Thunderhoof, wild black stallion, America’s Best 7, Black Terror 5, 9, 14-15, America’s Biggest Comics Book nn (1943-46); Tim Dawson, dark-haired soldier of fortune, Wonder 1-6 (1944-45); Tommy Dolan, ace detective, Thrilling 2 (1940); Tom Niles, Undersea Raider, American commander of a British submarine named the Marlin, Thrilling 2, 4, 6-12 (1940-41).
Sorry, comments are closed for this post.