Member-only story

The Fantastic Four: A Comprehensive History of the World's Greatest Comic Book Team (1961-1998, 2007)

Fred Foster

·8.8k Followers· Follow

Published in Fantastic Four (1961 1998) #207 (Fantastic Four (1961 1996))

5 min read

1k View Claps

94 Respond

Save

Listen

The Fantastic Four is one of the most popular and enduring superhero teams in comic book history. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1961, the Fantastic Four has starred in countless comic books, animated series, and feature films. This article takes a comprehensive look at the history of the Fantastic Four, from their humble beginnings to their current status as one of the most beloved superhero teams of all time.

Fantastic Four (1961-1998) #207 (Fantastic Four (1961-1996))

by Marv Wolfman

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	69061 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	18 pages

The Early Years (1961-1966)

The Fantastic Four was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1961 as part of Marvel Comics' new line of superhero titles. The team consisted of Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic),Sue Storm (Invisible Woman),Johnny Storm (Human Torch),and Ben Grimm (Thing). The four astronauts were on a space mission when they were bombarded by cosmic rays, which gave them superpowers. Richards gained the ability to stretch his body into any shape, Storm could become invisible and project force fields, Grimm became a rocky-skinned monster with superhuman strength, and Storm could fly and shoot fireballs.

The Fantastic Four quickly became one of Marvel's most popular titles, thanks to the team's unique powers and their relatable personalities. The team faced off against a variety of villains, including Doctor Doom, Galactus, and the Silver Surfer. They also had many adventures in space, where they encountered alien races and explored new planets.

The Silver Age (1966-1978)

The Fantastic Four continued to be a popular title throughout the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, the team underwent several changes, including the addition of new members and the departure of old ones. In 1969, the Thing left the team to join the Avengers, and was replaced by Crystal, a member of the Inhumans. In 1973, Black Panther joined the team, and in 1975, She-Hulk became a member. The Fantastic Four also had several crossovers with other Marvel superheroes, including the Avengers, the X-Men, and Spider-Man.

During the Silver Age, the Fantastic Four faced off against a new generation of villains, including the Red Skull, the Puppet Master, and Ultron. They also had several adventures in the Negative Zone, a dimension of anti-matter that is home to a variety of strange and dangerous creatures.

The Bronze Age (1978-1986)

The Bronze Age was a period of decline for the Fantastic Four. The team's popularity waned, and sales of the comic book began to decline. This was due in part to the rise of new superhero teams, such as the X-Men and the New Teen Titans. The Fantastic Four also suffered from a lack of creativity, as the writers struggled to come up with new and exciting stories. In 1986, the Fantastic Four was cancelled, after 257 issues.

The Modern Age (1987-Present)

The Fantastic Four was revived in 1987, with a new creative team that included writer John Byrne and artist Walt Simonson. The new team reinvigorated the series, and the Fantastic Four quickly regained its popularity. The team has since starred in several successful comic book series, including Fantastic Four, Fantastic Four: World's Greatest Comics, and Fantastic Four: True Believers.

In recent years, the Fantastic Four has faced off against a variety of new villains, including Annihilus, the Skrulls, and the Dark Avengers. The team has also had several adventures in space, where they have encountered new alien races and explored new planets. The Fantastic Four is currently one of the most popular superhero teams in comic books, and the team's adventures continue to entertain readers of all ages.

Legacy

The Fantastic Four is one of the most iconic superhero teams in history. The team has had a profound impact on the comic book industry, and has inspired countless other superhero teams. The Fantastic Four has also been adapted into several successful animated series and feature films. The team's adventures continue to entertain readers of all ages, and the Fantastic Four remains one of the most beloved superhero teams of all time.

Fantastic Four (1961-1998) #207 (Fantastic Four (1961-1996))

by Marv Wolfman

5 out of 5