Today marks National Comic Book Day because this was the first day in history comic books were first popularized in the United States. Most comic books have even made their way into major movies, such as Spider-Man, Iron Man, and of course, Infinity War. In tattoo culture, comic books have inspired a style of their own, so enjoy a few of our favorite picks below. Comment your favorite protagonist below!
Cover image by: @happilyabstract
A week into his job at Timely Comics, Stan Lee got the opportunity to write a two-page comic, the protagonist being Captain America. This was published on August 1st, 1941 and led to his big break.
Tattoo by: Andy Barrett
Even though Deadpool is the anti-hero we know and love, the hilarious Wade Wilson was not intended to have his own comic book series at first. Originally he was a disposable character used as a plot point but his quirky attitude and humor inspired a large fanbase that led to his own movie and comic books.
Tattoo by: Damien Wickham
The Joker has been popular antagonist in the Bat-verse, but in the beginning, they were going to have Bat-Man defeat The Joker, fearing readers would lose interest with a reoccurring villain. (Obviously they didn't go through with this idea).
Tattoo by: Javi Antunez
American comic books first gained popularity in the late 1930s with the debut of the superhero, Superman.
Tattoo by: Sergey Shanko
Groot first appeared in Tales to Astonish #13 back in November of 1960, and was created by Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, and Jack Kirby.
Tattoo by: Mr. Jack