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Flash History


Flash is actually a representation and name for several different characters. All of these characters have the same superhero identity and superpowers, but different normal identities. In this nature, the Flash is similar to the Green Lantern. But actually, the Flash preceded the Green Lantern in their initial publications.

The four identities of The Flash have been Jay Garrick, Barry Allen, Wally West and Bart Allen. They obtained their superpowers in different ways. Garrick gained his through the inhalation of hard waters while Barry Allen gained his through being bathed in chemicals, for example.

The Flash was first published in January of 1940 in Flash Comics #1. This was published under All America Publications, which would go on to become DC Comics. Superheroes have often found their roots in Greek mythology. The Flash is not completely different from that, appearing with a winged helmet reminiscent of the Greek god Hermes. Hermes had winged sandals and was a messenger and protector of travelers. The Flash has super speed and ultra fast reflexes and abilities.

The Flash stands out for being the first comic book superhero to have a so called specialization, or one, lone superpower or ability. Characters such as Superman had a wide scope of many different powers and strengths. The Flash had just one, of course, his super speed. The first Flash, from the Golden Age of comics and the initial presentation of the character was Jay Garrick.

In the Silver Age, the Flash was Barry Allen; but much more changed between the Golden Age and Silver Age than the character’s name. The Flash was completely reinvented when he was reintroduced in 1956. Appearing in Showcase #4, during October of 1956, the Flash’s revival marked the creation of the Silver Age itself.

After World War II superheroes were no longer popular with the American public. In combination with the newly formed Comics Code, superheroes needed to be recreated in order to find an audience once again. DC Comics was the first to do this, and the first character they did it with was the Flash. Superheroes would now have a greater focus on their human side. Their back story and human personality would receive more attention.

In addition, the artwork for the Silver Age was dramatically improved. Brighter colors and more dramatic, eye catching drawings were used. Character costumes were revitalized as well, all in an attempt to catch up with the times and regain the popularity that superheroes used to enjoy.

Needless to say, the reintroduction of the Flash was a large success and directly led to the recreation of nearly all of DC Comics’ line of superheroes. Eventually Marvel Comics followed suit as well. The Flash was also a part of the Justice Society of America, the first popular superhero team and a another trend the industry would grab a hold of.

Always the source of innovation it seems, the Flash was part of yet another now highly common comic book trend. The Flash character from the Golden Age and the Flash character from the Silver Age were explained to both exist at the same time in parallel universes. In Volume 1, issue number 123 of The Flash, the two different Flash’s meet and actually become good friends.