“The current version of ‘The History of the DC Universe’ is one of the standout titles in DC Comics’ publishing line at present, which speaks volumes about its quality. At the moment, DC Comics are experiencing a creative surge, and with the growing fanbase drawn in by the success of ‘Superman’, it makes sense for the publisher to provide new readers with a means to navigate the complex continuity of their comics. Since ‘Crisis on Infinite Earths’, the history of DC has undergone numerous changes. The irony lies in the fact that these alterations often lead back to the pre-‘Crisis’ universe, starting with ‘Infinite Crisis’ (a series that was itself part of the 20th anniversary of ‘Crisis’). After reestablishing the pre-‘Crisis’ continuity throughout the 2000s, DC dismantled it all with ‘Flashpoint’, giving birth to the New 52.”
The overhaul of DC continuity known as “The New 52” has been met with much criticism. Despite producing some excellent comics during this time, it was generally disfavored and its events have increasingly become non-canonical. Notably, the comic series “The New History of the DC Universe” #1 largely validated events from before and after the “Crisis” for canonicity, so it came as a surprise when issue #2 revealed the origins of the Justice League. Contrary to their first appearance battling Starro the Conqueror in The Brave and the Bold #28 – which was considered canonical with changes like Black Canary taking Wonder Woman’s place – The New History of the DC Universe #2 now claims that the beginning of the Justice League in the New 52 is the true canon, making for an intriguing yet peculiar shift.
The Justice League’s First Battle in the New 52 Was Against Darkseid
As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’d say, “The groundbreaking comic series, ‘Justice League,’ penned by Geoff Johns and Jim Lee, was the star attraction of the New 52 lineup. The initial story arc, dubbed “Orgin,” unfolded the epic tale of Earth’s mightiest heroes uniting for the first time, five years prior to the commencement of other New 52 titles (with a notable exception being Grant Morrison and Rags Morales’ ‘Action Comics,’ which also delved into the past and stood out as the crème de la crème of the New 52). This epic gathering saw Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg (replacing Martian Manhunter in the Big Seven League during the New 52) come together to thwart an invasion by Darkseid and his forces, engaging in a fierce battle against the formidable lord of Apokolips.
This rendition of the Justice League’s origin was quite distinct from its predecessor. Originally, it was Starro the Conqueror who threatened Earth, prompting Green Lantern, Flash, Aquaman, Martian Manhunter, and Wonder Woman to band together. Superman and Batman joined the team shortly afterward. However, due to a shift in the post-Crisis DC universe, where Wonder Woman hadn’t yet left Themyscria at that point, Black Canary II, the daughter of the Justice Society member Black Canary I, was among the League’s founding members. Mark Waid, collaborating with co-writer Bryan Augustyn and artist Barry Kitson, recounted this altered origin story in the captivating ‘JLA: Year One.’
It might be expected that Waid, who is renowned for his affection towards Silver Age DC, would stick to the original origin story of the Justice League. Contrarily, he opts for the New 52 version instead. He maintains the battle against the Appellaxians as the second mission for the League, but also preserves Cyborg as one of the founding members. However, unlike in the New 52 where Cyborg remains with the team after the confrontation with Darkseid, he is placed into hibernation here. Instead, Martian Manhunter steps in to take his place within the League. This arrangement allows Cyborg to be a founder of the Justice League while also preserving his history with the New Teen Titans.
The changes made to DC canon in the New 52 are significant, yet they significantly improve the characters and storylines. For instance, Cyborg’s powers have been enhanced with his bonding with an Apokolips Mother Box during the invasion, which makes him a central character while keeping the classic Teen Titans team intact. Moreover, the Justice League’s unification against Darkseid elevates his status in the canon, making him a more formidable villain akin to Marvel’s Thanos. This also ensures that Martian Manhunter remains part of the League, a change some purists may not have welcomed. Lastly, these changes help bridge the gap between DC comics and those who are familiar with the animated and live-action adaptations of DC Universe.
What Else From the New 52 Will Become Canon?
In my view, a significant contributor to DC’s recent triumphs has been abandoning most concepts from the New 52 series. To put it bluntly, the New 52 left much to be desired. While it had its moments, it wasn’t a successful revamp of the DC Multiverse. It’s intriguing, though, that issue #2 of The New History of the DC Universe traces the New 52 origins for the League.
This adaptation works exceptionally well. Although the initial conflict against Starro was impressive, having the League’s first battle be against Darkseid aligns more appropriately. It mirrors the kind of danger the Justice League is designed to confront, thereby making their introduction more awe-inspiring. However, this adjustment raises a question about which New 52 events will become established facts. Every DC fan likely has elements from the New 52 they desire to be canon, and this change provides an opportunity for readers to explore that possibility.
The New History of the DC Universe #2 is on sale now.
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2025-07-25 20:12