The Case:
A comic book collector in Brooklyn, NY owns several storyboards from a cartoon comic strip dating to the immediate post-World War II period.
The strip relates the story of Pete Gray, the first one-armed major league baseball player who later became an icon for disabled WWII veterans.
The cartoon world had its golden age from the late 1930’s through the 50’s, and although many period cartoonists were extraordinarily talented, they were also often moonlighting from work in advertising or more “respectable” trades and their identities were often not disclosed.
Who was the artist of this remarkable comic? And why does it feature a real-life human, rather than the more common superhero?
History Detectives examine how comic artists helped reframe popular culture in the mid-20th century.
Related Content
Feature:
Technique:
Technique:
Technique:
Related Links
Explore
-
Related Investigation
Superman Sketch
Is this a WWII sketch from the early days of this comic icon?
-
Also with Elyse Luray
Sideshow Babies
Was the owner of this cup once a four-pound sideshow exhibit?
-
Also with Elyse Luray
Mexican Currency
What role did this money play in the Mexican Revolution?
-
Related Investigation
Bill Picket Saddle
Did this saddle ride into cowboy history with one of rodeo's most daring innovators?
-
Also with Elyse Luray
Flint Lock Rifle
Was this the gun of one of the most infamous bandits operating to undermine the birth of our nation?
-
Also in Season 5
Civil War Balloon
Could this piece of frayed material be from the country's first military airship?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.