Captain America Politics Flashcards
What is the history of Captain America?
In 1940, Timely Comics responded to the superhero comic trend by hiring Joe Simon to create a new hero, resulting in Captain America. Simon envisioned Adolf Hitler as the hero’s nemesis, a real-life adversary reflecting Simon’s opposition to Nazi Germany. Teaming up with Jack Kirby, they introduced Captain America in 1941, facing the Red Skull. The character’s popularity soared, making it Timely’s flagship. Threats from the German American Bund prompted police protection. Simon and Kirby left Timely due to profit disputes. Captain America’s popularity waned post-WWII, leading to varied attempts to revitalize the character. The Cold War era saw the character’s brief revival as “Captain America, Commie Smasher,” but the series was canceled. Marvel later reintroduced Captain America in 1963, linking him to the Avengers. The character faced challenges like the Vietnam War debate. The 1970s turned to domestic issues, introducing The Falcon and exploring political themes. Creative shifts continued through the ’80s and ’90s. Captain America’s trajectory mirrored broader industry challenges, marked by bankruptcy and rebranding. Writers like Mark Waid and Ed Brubaker brought fresh perspectives, with Brubaker’s acclaimed run featuring the “Winter Soldier” arc. Sam Wilson assumed the mantle in 2014, followed by Nick Spencer’s controversial “Hydra Supreme” storyline. In 2018, Ta-Nehisi Coates helmed a new series as part of Marvel’s Fresh Start initiative, continuing the legacy of the iconic character.
What is the overall characterization of Captain America?
As of 2015, Captain America has been featured in over ten thousand stories across various media formats, including comic books, books, and trade publications, totaling more than five thousand appearances. The character’s origin story, a consistent theme throughout editorial history, centers on Steven “Steve” Rogers, born in the 1920s in impoverished conditions on the Lower East Side of New York City. Rejected by the U.S. Army due to physical limitations, Rogers becomes the first test subject for “Project Rebirth,” a government initiative aiming to create super soldiers with the “Super-Soldier Serum.” Despite a successful transformation, a Nazi spy sabotages the project, leaving Rogers as the lone super soldier. Donning a patriotic uniform and shield, he becomes Captain America, combating the Red Skull and Axis powers. Believed to have perished in the war, Rogers is found decades later by the Avengers, frozen in ice. Returning to the modern era, he resumes his superhero role, leading the Avengers and facing various challenges. Rogers navigates complex personal and ideological struggles, occasionally adopting alternative aliases like “Nomad” and “The Captain.” His character undergoes shifts but maintains a core of “uncompromising purity” and keen judgment.
What is Captain America’s political stances?
Political undertones are woven into Captain America stories, reflecting broader societal issues, from the post-war disillusionment in “Secret Empire” to critiques of the war on drugs in the “Streets of Poison” storyline. Captain America’s patriotism is portrayed as rooted in universal rights, transcending specific political goals. Despite embodying the American Dream, Captain America avoids overt jingoism, consistently evolving with the serialized present while upholding enduring ideals. The character’s impact is evident in the proliferation of patriotic-themed superheroes during the 1940s, and Captain America remains an enduring icon in American popular culture. Recognized as one of Marvel’s most iconic characters, he has left an indelible mark on comic book history, ranking high on lists of top comic book heroes and Avengers characters. Captain America’s cultural significance extends beyond comics, influencing counterculture in the 1960s and earning widespread eulogies in mainstream media upon his fictional death in 2007. The character’s enduring legacy is affirmed by rankings and accolades, cementing Captain America as a symbol of heroism and an integral part of comic book lore.
What is the modern political nature of Captain America?
A Salon article delves into the inherently political nature of Captain America, examining both Marvel Studios’ cinematic portrayal and the character’s representation in comic books. It emphasizes the pervasive political themes across Marvel’s storytelling, encompassing power dynamics, government secrets, identity, and societal issues. The recent uproar over Marvel Comics’ “United States of Captain America” series, where Steve Rogers questions the American Dream, sparked controversy on Fox News. The piece criticizes those who label Captain America as “Captain Woke,” asserting that political commentary has been integral to the character since World War II. The article highlights how various Marvel productions, including “The Winter Soldier” and “Civil War,” delve into real-world issues like surveillance, policing, and global governance. It underscores Marvel’s enduring legacy of addressing political matters, refuting claims that recent political engagement is a departure for the franchise.
QC: Is Captain America Civil War a right wing movie?
In navigating the sociopolitical landscape within the Captain America series, particularly evident in “Civil War,” the Russo brothers employ a nuanced approach that stimulates both right-wing and left-wing perspectives, portraying #TeamCap as embodying right-wing politics while acknowledging the compelling left-wing elements of #TeamIronMan, ultimately highlighting the polarization of contemporary politics and emphasizing the absence of clear moral delineations, conveying a poignant reflection of our conflicted political reality in “Civil War.” - The Russo brothers’ cinematic exploration of authority and power, adapted from Scottish writer Mark Millar’s comic story and influenced by his liberal perspective, can be interpreted as having an anti-right leaning, showcasing the subjectivity of political viewpoints in storytelling; the film underscores the impact of personal ideologies on the perception of characters like Steve Rogers, whose journey from a symbol of the government to an insurgent against it prompts varied political associations, challenging simplistic claims of supporting any particular viewpoint and leaving the debate’s winner, whether Steve or Tony, open to interpretation. - In the ideological conflict between Tony Stark, embodying left-leaning sentiments with a focus on international oversight and military restraint, and Captain America, symbolizing a more assertive historical U.S. and UN involvement akin to the Greatest Generation’s approach, the narrative unfolds as a generational clash, prompting personal alignment with the latter’s belief in decisive action despite potential casualties. - In the debate between Team Iron Man and Team Captain America, the former’s pros include awareness of collateral damage and the recognition that not every conflict requires superheroes, balanced against the cons of being restricted by government directives and susceptible to government exploitation. On the other hand, Team Captain America’s pros involve the autonomy to save lives as deemed necessary, avoiding passive observation during destruction, and fostering public trust, yet countered by the cons of potentially leaving extensive wreckage and harboring a fugitive with a history of UN bombing.
Reddit: Is Captain America a Democrat or Republican?
The characterization of Captain America’s political stance varies, with some viewing him as a New Deal Democrat during World War II, leaning left as an independent in modern times, while others perceive him as more aligned with small government conservatism, potentially being an independent who supports candidates with conservative values. Some argue that he wouldn’t fit with Libertarians due to his commitment to social justice and opposition to Nazi ideologies, positioning him as a centrist with no party affiliation, leaning right on certain issues and left on others. Others suggest that, as a World War II veteran confronted with contemporary progressive ideals, he might be centered but lean more right-wing, possibly alienated by modern leftist and rightist extremes. There are even interpretations tying his Christian values to conservatism, fighting for freedom akin to a Democrat. The sentiment that he is “Loyal to nothing, But the Dream” sparks a debate about whether the modern portrayal of Captain America reflects a disillusionment with the American Dream. - He’s a New Deal Democrat in The WW II era. Independent leaning left in the modern day. He would have grown up in a time fairly cloaked in policies of experimenting in socialism and poor. He also would not have gone through a phase of American politics that made swear words out of socialism. - I’d say he’d be alienated by the more progressive ideals, but disgusted by modern-day Nazis and Socialists alike. A lot more centered, but more right-wing just because the past tends to be more conservative.
Would Captain America support Donald Trump?
An article from The New Statesman delves into the intriguing question of whether Captain America would support Donald Trump, considering the character’s inherently political nature. Examining Captain America’s complex history, from punching Hitler in 1941 to navigating political controversies in the ’70s and responding to Watergate, the character has consistently been a symbol for American ideals rather than a blind supporter of government actions. The article explores how Captain America, historically critical of government overreach, would likely take issue with policies such as mandatory identity registration, Guantanamo Bay, and the construction of a border wall, showcasing how the character serves as a lens to highlight the disparity between American ideals and their real-world execution.
How did Captain America: Civil War address modern political issues?
“Captain America: Civil War, the third installment in the Captain America series, navigates the complexities of the superhero’s political allegiances and ideals. The film’s exploration of a patriotic idealist versus a corporate realist mirrors the broader clash within the superhero community. Captain America finds himself at odds with the Republican Party’s leadership, symbolized by a wealthy 1 percenter. The movie also introduces a live-action Spider-Man reboot, portraying the superhero as cute, gawky, and prone to making silly puns. As Captain America battles for justice, freedom, and the American way, the film grapples with timeless virtues and ethical dilemmas. Directors Joe and Anthony Russo push Steve Rogers out of his comfort zone in ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier,’ creating a more reflective and introspective Captain America while blending modern and traditional values. The character’s enduring popularity stems from his commitment to American ideals, serving as a symbol of inspiration and embodying what is good about the United States. Captain America’s political beliefs, often seen as conservative, have evolved since the character’s creation in the 1960s, reflecting changing times and societal values. His dedication to the American Dream and resistance against oppressive government actions make Captain America a timeless hero, resonating with audiences of all ages.”
Washington Examiner’s take on Captain America’s politics
Captain America is often regarded as the moral compass of the Marvel Universe, embodying a standard of virtue against which other heroes are measured. Quoting directly from the comics, Captain America’s commitment to the principles of America is evident, with declarations about standing for the rights of man and battling tyranny. Despite originating from a past era with old-fashioned morals and manners, Captain America is not easily labeled as a political conservative; rather, he consistently aligns with a New Deal liberal perspective since his revival in the 1960s. As a man out of time, his critiques of contemporary issues are rooted in a perspective within our cultural context, reflecting an outlook that is outmoded but not obsolete. Captain America’s unwavering dedication to fighting for America and Americans, despite ethical shifts, highlights his belief in the enduring principles of justice and freedom. In a world where nationalism is questioned, Captain America continues to trust in the nation’s worthiness of his efforts, even as he grapples with the changing moral landscape. Serving as a model of good citizenship, Captain America encourages responsibility, voluntary community service, and bravery in defending freedoms, emphasizing the need for moral principles and a sense of duty to prevent politics from descending into a cutthroat pursuit of victory and power.
QC: Captain America Political Stances
Referring specifically to the MCU’s Captain America, who is widely recognized, individuals tend to interpret iconic figures like Captain America in ways that align with their preferences, and while this may vary in the comic version, most people could find aspects of themselves in Captain America or vice versa. Particularly evident in the political-centered storyline of Captain America: Civil War, the character embodies a conservative perspective, clashing with Tony Stark over government control. Captain America advocates for individual freedom, personal responsibility, and the belief that the correct course of action should be chosen, not forced, as exemplified by his opposition to the Sokovia Accords and his criticism of large centrally-controlled weapon systems in The Winter Soldier. Overall, MCU’s Captain America stands as an example of right-wing political thought, emphasizing the importance of keeping power in the hands of the people rather than relying on potentially corruptible governmental entities. - In the Marvel movies, the emphatic answer to whether Captain America is racist is no. The portrayal in “Captain America: The First Avenger” addresses potential biases as Steve Rogers initially reacts to a German doctor but later demonstrates loyalty and affection, choosing a racially integrated combat team in WWII. In the present day, his interactions, including with Nick Fury and Sam Wilson (Falcon), show no signs of racism, aligning with Captain America’s role as a symbol of America’s best ideals. - Captain America was created by New Deal era New Yorkers during the war on facism. Forget about conservative, by modern standards, he’s damned near Communist. I don’t really think his MCU portrayal is very far off that. By comparison, Tony Stark is a billionaire industrialist with deep financial ties to the US military, even if he no longer makes weapons. He was originally created as a classic economic conservative. I don’t really think his MCU portrayal has been very far off that. - So far, the people who have been writing the MCU Cap have been very careful (and very clever) to create a character who finds himself in the center of issues that see MAJOR left/right divisions in contemporary US politics — yet that both sides can love and identify with. - Captain America is a patriot, first and foremost. He rarely expresses political views one way or another. He is generally pro-government and pro-capitalism but also believes that everyone is equal and should be allowed to have the same opportunities. He is for individual rights and maximum freedom, but also insists on personal responsibility. In the past he may have been presented as either slightly right or left-wing, depending on the writing team, but, in general, he is straight down the middle with one notable exception: Captain America has always been anti-fascist and anti-Nazi. - Cap has always a political Liberal Icon. He is an Anti Fascist that punched Hitler. Took down a right wing cabal lead by Nixon (Secret Empire of the ‘70s) Saved a gay man and told him he was not sick or ill back in the homophobic “80s. He dated a Jewish Community Organizer/ Lawyer Bernie Rosenthal. He was against the Super Human Registration act that to the point that he fought the gov and Iron Man’s team. He is an Anti Fascist fight Hitler and Hydra. He has called out Nationalism. He is the Pinnacle of Progressive Patriotism. - He grew up in a time when FDR created the minimum wage through the Fair Labor Act. An employer must pay a living wage to their workers. A wage that ensures an employee has enough money for a roof over their head and food on their table. The fact that an American worker can do 40hrs a week - also in the Fair Labor Act - at minimum wage, and be unable to rent a one room apartment would piss him off. That unions - FLA again! - are actively discouraged and half the time they do exist, they’re used to bolster the bottom line of the company (mandatory Union dues!! Lol), not help the employees - yeah. That our vets are treated worse than our criminals - yep. Men in womens restrooms? There’s conservative there. Growing up in Brooklyn, he’d have seen both drag queens and true trans individuals. Somebody just having a pee…uh. Who cares? But a man claims he’s trans so he can access a woman’s restroom and then harasses/assaults somebody there? Cap’ll punch his lights out and another charge on the guy’s rap sheet is always a good thing. Denying a gay couple a cake and being forced to serve them anyway? Back in Cap’s day, they’d just tell the shop owner where to stuff it and take their business elsewhere if they didn’t like his attitude. Getting the courts involved would seem silly. - Liberal, he grew up in 1930’s New York and was a liberal arts grad. He was also anti-racist, had a respect for strong women, is anti-nationalist and quit being captain america for a while in response to a conservative presidents actions, not to mention he supported the Viet Cong in alternate realities of the character which is something liberals also did in the 60’s during the war. - He recruited a black dude as an equal; he works alongside women and will take orders from them; he opposes fascism; he doesn’t judge people who have sex outside of marriage; he doesn’t try to force his own religious beliefs on anyone else; he doesn’t try to regulate what a woman is allowed to do with her own body; he doesn’t use guns; he is happy to work alongside foreigners as equals; he has no problem with aliens (illegal or otherwise) and is actually happy to work alongside them as equals. - Considering Captain America is a REAL Christian, served in the military, had lots of black friends, fought and massacred nazi trash, freed jews, believes in and supports female empowerment. He sure as hell is not any kind of conservative. Maybe a moderate but a far left leaning one for sure. -
What did Steven Attewell say about Captain America?
In Steven Attewell’s essay titled “Steve Rogers Isn’t Just Any Hero,” he addresses the debate on whether modern portrayals of Captain America are politically correct revisionist history. Attewell is a political author who analyzes politics in media. He argues against the notion that cultural attitudes in the past were monolithic, emphasizing that even in history, there were individuals who challenged conventional wisdom. He delves into Captain America’s background, highlighting his 1930s New York City upbringing, poor family, and exposure to left-wing politics. Attewell emphasizes Captain America’s alignment with New Deal and anti-fascist values, providing historical context to the character’s development. He discusses how Captain America, unlike other patriotic superheroes, embodies a progressive ideal, challenging the depoliticized portrayals of war in media. Attewell contends that portraying Steve Rogers as a progressive superhero is not revisionist or politically correct; it is an integral aspect of Captain America’s character.
