Avengers #42

Avengers Vol. 1 #42, published in July 1967, is a key Silver Age issue that continues the Cold War tension introduced in issue #43, and importantly reveals the true identity of the Red Guardian as Alexei Shostakov—the former husband of Natasha Romanoff, aka the Black Widow.

This revelation adds emotional weight and political complexity to the Avengers’ battle with the Soviet super-soldier. The story also includes a clash between the Avengers and Colonel Ling's forces, deepening Marvel's exploration of East vs. West ideologies through superhero action.

Featuring Captain America, Hercules, Goliath, the Wasp, Hawkeye, Quicksilver, and Scarlet Witch, this issue delivers on character-driven storytelling and long-term continuity significance.

Written by Roy Thomas and illustrated by John Buscema, this is an essential issue for fans of Marvel’s Cold War era and the early development of Black Widow’s backstory.

🔗 Source: Marvel Fandom Wiki – Avengers Vol 1 #42

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🔥 Why You Need This Comic:

• 🛡️ Reveals the true identity of the Red Guardian – Alexei Shostakov

• 🕷️ Connects directly to Black Widow’s early Soviet backstory

• ✍️ Written by Roy Thomas, with art by John Buscema during his early Avengers run

• 🌍 Intensifies Cold War-era themes in the Marvel Universe

• 💥 A highly collectible Silver Age issue with MCU relevance (Red Guardian featured in Black Widow 2021)

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🎯 Perfect For:

• Collectors of Cold War-themed Marvel comics

• Fans of Black Widow, Red Guardian, and Captain America’s ideological rivals

• Readers who enjoy espionage, identity reveals, and emotional stakes

• Investors targeting undervalued Silver Age continuity keys

Writer/s: Roy Thomas
Letterer/s: Artie Simek
Inker/s: George Bell
Cover Artist/s: John Buscema and Stan Goldberg
Interior Artist/s: John Buscema

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