Marvel Comics, first called Timely Publications, was founded in 1939. The company debuted by launching Marvel Comics #1 which featured The Human Torch and Namor the Sub-Mariner. However, Marvel really took on form in the 1960s thanks to the talents that was Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Steve Ditko.
Black Panther (T’Challa)
- Symbolizes: Royalty, tradition, and progress.
- Why he matters: As a king and superhero, he bridges ancient values with futuristic ideals.
Wolverine
- Symbolizes: Survival, loss, and loyalty.
- Why he matters: A gritty anti-hero with a tortured soul, he's a fan-favorite for good reason.
Doctor Strange
- Symbolizes: Magic, enlightenment, and humility.
- Why he matters: He opens up the multiverse, offering stories full of cosmic and philosophical depth.
Scarlet Witch (Wanda Maximoff)
- Symbolizes: Chaos, grief, and power.
- Why she matters: Her tragic arc explores trauma, family, and the thin line between hero and villain.
Ms. Marvel (Kamala Khan)
- Symbolizes: Identity, diversity, and optimism.
- Why she matters: As a teenage Pakistani-American Muslim, she represents the modern generation of heroes.
