Taxpayer-Funded 'America250' Comics Stir Debate Amid Diverse US Anniversary Takes

Forget fireworks and parades. The 250th anniversary of the United States birthed one of the most unexpected comic book releases: a taxpayer-funded series by Christian publisher Kingstone. Drawn by Immortal Hulk artist Joe Bennett, these “America250” comics present a heavily curated history. They depict the U.S. as a nation founded by the Christian God, explicitly including figures like Clarence Thomas and “Trump's Freedom Trucks.” Critics, like Colin Woodward, call it a “cherry-picking expedition,” omitting diverse colonial origins and the role of slavery. This isn't just revisionist history; it's government-backed propaganda, a jarring departure from historical nuance.

Thankfully, the rest of the industry offered a more varied—and often critical—reflection. DC Comics leaned into darkness. “100 Bullets: The US Of Anger #1” explored the nation's underbelly. Martian Manhunter's universe even saw an eagle-like “Absolute Uncle Sam” as a villain. Marvel Comics, meanwhile, issued celebratory variant covers and a “1776” series sending heroes back to the Rebellion. Yet, last month, Marvel also killed Captain America twice and depicted General Ross's Red Hulk invading Latveria to enforce “democracy” his way. This is complex storytelling, not blind patriotism.

Antarctic Press offered “Horror Comics: American Nightmares,” embracing macabre Americana. Archie Comics, predictably, went full Americana with “Archie Comics Celebrates America's 250th.” Drawn & Quarterly’s “Declaration Emancipation Illustrated” mashed up foundational documents with comics. Even Image Comics' Ghost Machine titles, “Geiger” and “Redcoat,” got Rebellion-themed covers. Oni Press launched a Kickstarter for “Liberty,” a historical graphic novel about secret arms smugglers of the Rebellion.