Thursday, February 21, 2008

1970's Flashback: Captain Britain




Captain Britain , also briefly known as Britannic, was created by X-Men writer Chris Claremont and Incredible Hulk artist Herb Trimpe, the character first appeared in Captain Britain Weekly #1 (October 13, 1976). The character was later revamped in the mid-1980’s in stories written by acclaimed British writer Alan Moore and artist Alan Davis.


Captain Britain was meant to be the British equivalent of Captain America (who made a number of guest appearances in the original series; along with his arch-foe, The Red Skull). Endowed with extraordinary powers by the legendary magician Merlyn and his daughter Roma, Captain Britain was assigned to uphold the laws of Britain.


Brian Braddock was a shy and studious youth, living a relatively quiet life in a small town with his parents and siblings (older brother Jamie and his fraternal twin Elisabeth). After the death of his parents in an automobile accident, Brian accepted a fellowship at Darkmoore Nuclear Research Center. When the facility was attacked by the Reaver, Brian escaped on his motorcycle, seeking help. Although he soon fatally crashed on his motorcycle, Merlyn and his daughter the Omniversal Guardian Roma, resurrected Brian. They offered him the chance to become a superhero! He was asked to choose either the Amulet of Right or the Sword of Might. Considering himself to be no warrior and unsuited for the challenge, Brian rejected the Sword and chose the Amulet. This decision transformed young Brian Braddock into England’s Champion, Captain Britain.


The character has also become part of the extended X-Men family as a member of Excalibur.

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