Today in Marvel History: The Avengers Assemble

On July 2, 1963, Iron Man, Thor, the Hulk, Ant-Man, and the Wasp joined forces to become the most legendary Super Hero team in comic book history.

AVENGERS #1 is a landmark issue in the history of the Marvel Universe not just because it solidified the concept of disparate heroes joining forces across titles, but because it also featured an appearance by the Fantastic Four and it introduced Loki's now decades-long rivalry with the team!

Written by Stan Lee, with art by Jack Kirby, inks by Dick Ayers, and letters by Sam Rosen, this magnificent mag seemed destined for greatness from the start. With a creative team like that—led by Stan "The Man" and "King" Kirby—how could it not be!? (By the way, this issue was released the same day as X-MEN #1. Not a bad year!)

After a titanic tussle that managed to give Iron Man, Thor, the Hulk, Ant-Man, and the Wasp each significant work to do throughout the ish, the group finally defeated Loki. But one thing was left to do...name the team! That's when Janet Van Dyne stepped in...

...And with that, history was made!

Read AVENGERS (1963) #1 on Marvel Unlimited right now! Then head to Marvel's 80th anniversary hub page for more from the history of the House of Ideas!