Welcome to the first installment of the history of comics. This new feature will focus not on the characters and the way the country is portrayed in comics, but rather the history of comics in that specific nation.
The first nation to be featured will be the nation of England in Europe. England has always been a key player in world events. England is also closely attached to the United States, which gives it an advantage over the rest of the world when it comes to comics.
The first traces of comics or cartooning in England was created by the renowned illustrator, Francis Barlow. Francis Barlow lived from 1624 to 1704. Barlow was famous for his illustrations, many of which were of satirical content. He created a few propaganda posters that resembled comics very closely.
Some of Francis Barlow's work:
Comics in England would remain silent for about a 100 years. Around 1809, Thomas Rowlandson would begin to release his illustrated work known as the "Tours Of Dr. Syntax". The Tour Of Dr Syntax would follow the tale of a 19th century English clergyman and his misadventures as he would travel the country. Illustrations would be featured but with no thought bubbles. The commentary would be featured at the bottom of the page.
An example of T. Rowlandson's work:
Even though Dr. Syntax came first, he is not technically considered the first comic character in English history. Ally Sloper begun being published in the year the 14 of August of 1867. The first comics could be found inside an English comedy magazine known as "Judy".
However, just like Dr. Syntax, again, there was no bubbles. The thoughts and comments of the characters were featured at the bottom of the page.
The character was created by Charles H. Rose and his French wife named Emilie de Tessier. The comic was not of much satirical content like the previous examples found in the article. The comic was almost of strict comic sense.
In the 20th century comics exploded into English newspapers and magazines just like they did in the United States. Characters such as Teddy Tail(1915) and Pop(1932) would become heavily famous among the English reader. Eventually, Marvel and DC comics would arrive in England. Marvel would begin to release comics exclusive to England such as Captain Marvel.
Possibly the most famous comic book writer today is Alan Moore. Due to the explosion of comic books in the big screen, Alan Moore has become more famous and recognized by the mainstream audience(even if he does not care.)
Alan Moore would go on to work for several famous American comics such as the Green Lantern as well as creating some fabulous characters of his own. Alan Moore also worked with several highly talented artists from his nation that have also have gained some recognition.
Alan Moore:
Today, comics still thrive in England. The fan base is not necessarily huge but it's not as small as in some countries around the world.