Ebon #1, 1970

Ebon #1, published in 1970 by Larry Fuller through the San Francisco Comic Book Company, is a pioneering work in comic book history. It is one of the first comics to feature a Black superhero as the central character and one of the earliest known titles fully created, written, and illustrated by a Black artist.

The story follows Valentine Jones, who becomes the superhero Ebon after discovering his extraterrestrial heritage. Drawing power from advanced alien technology and African-inspired sci-fi mythology, Ebon fights crime and injustice while navigating the complexities of identity and personal grief.

Although the comic struggled commercially and remained obscure for years, its influence has grown significantly, inspiring future generations of Black comic artists and fans. Recent scholarship and projects like “Black Kirby” have helped to spotlight Ebon’s historical importance and cultural significance in Black comic history.

Ebon #1 predates the solo titles of Luke Cage, Black Panther, and Blade, making it a formative work in the emergence of Black superheroes. The comic explores themes of race, poverty, violence, and identity from an authentic Black perspective, challenging mainstream clichés and caricatures.

Larry Fuller self-published the book after being rejected by major publishers, with support from Gary Arlington and the early San Francisco underground comix scene. Ebon’s position as a Black-led, independently produced superhero comic makes it both a rare collectible and a symbol of creative agency. Its cultural legacy continues to empower readers and creators to reimagine representation in comics.