3. Initially a dynastic character, the three iterations of Union Jack each offer a unique and interesting character capable of spawning an entire extended franchise on its own
Originally created by Roy Thomas and Frank Robbins, Union Jack was introduced to audiences in July 1976. A British aristocrat, Lord James Montgomery Falsworth dons his superhero alter ego during the First World War to serve his country. Retiring in peacetime, Falsworth is forced to resume his duties during the Second World War, becoming a member of the Invaders: a superhero team led by Captain America, Bucky Barnes, and the Human Torch. His daughter, Jacqueline, saved by the Human Torch, later becomes Spitfire, whilst Union Jack is ultimately crippled fighting his brother: Baron Blood.
Replaced by his son Brian, who had acquired superpowers from German scientists attempting to recreate the Super Soldier Formula that produced Captain America, the second iteration of Union Jack also is granted the gift of lightning by Thor. Dying suddenly in 1953, in the 1980s the working class Joseph Chapman dons the costume to save his friend’s life during a visit to Falworth Manor. Acting as a common hero in contrast to the aristocratic Captain Britain, the character has remained an important figure for social critique and commentary in a way the prior versions could never serve.
