The Web #1

The Web #1, published in June 1942 by MLJ Magazines—the company later known as Archie Comics—introduced the character John Raymond, a wealthy scientist who operates as a crime fighter. Created during the Golden Age of comics, the character was intended to capitalize on the immense popularity of costumed mystery men and pulp-style vigilantes that dominated the medium at the time.

The character's aesthetic and narrative framework were typical of the era, emphasizing a dual identity and high-stakes gadgetry. While The Web was a staple of the MLJ roster, the series was part of a competitive landscape where many superheroes struggled to achieve the enduring recognition of industry giants like Superman or Batman, leading to a relatively brief original run before the character was eventually reimagined by other publishers in later decades.