All Star Comics (1940–1978)
📘 Series Overview
All Star Comics is one of the foundational titles of the Golden Age of Comics and the series
that introduced the Justice Society of America, the first superhero team in comic book
history. Originally published by All-American Publications in partnership with National
Periodical Publications, the title functioned as a shared anthology showcasing the most
popular heroes from both companies.
Beginning with issue #3, the Justice Society became the primary feature of the book, with
team adventures starring characters such as the Flash (Jay Garrick), Green Lantern (Alan
Scott), Hawkman, Doctor Fate, Doctor Mid-Nite, the Atom, and later Wonder Woman. These
book-length stories established the team-based storytelling format that would influence
superhero comics for decades.
🦸 Key Characters & Firsts
The series features many of DC’s earliest and most important heroes and milestones. All
Star Comics #3 marks the first appearance of the Justice Society of America, while issue #8
contains the first appearance and origin of Wonder Woman, one of the most iconic characters
in comic book history.
Additional members introduced or prominently featured throughout the run include Starman,
Black Canary, Dr. Mid-Nite, and Johnny Thunder, along with frequent guest appearances by
Superman and Batman during the later Golden Age issues.
📅 Publication History
The series launched in 1940 and initially followed a quarterly schedule before shifting to
bimonthly publication. Wartime paper shortages led to temporary schedule changes during the
early 1940s, but the title continued steadily through issue #57. As superhero popularity
declined, the book transitioned into All Star Western, replacing the Justice Society with
western-themed heroes.
In 1976, the series was revived during the Bronze Age, restoring the Justice Society and
resuming numbering with issue #58. The revived run continued through issue #74, officially
adopting the hyphenated title “All-Star Comics” before concluding in 1978.
⭐ Historical Significance
- First superhero team comic in history
- Cornerstone title of the Golden Age
- Debut of Wonder Woman
- Established the superhero team storytelling format
- Spans Golden Age and Bronze Age eras
