John Carter

Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel 'A Princess of Mars,' which introduces the character John Carter, is published. The story follows John Carter, a Confederate soldier during the American Civil War, who is mysteriously transported to Mars, referred to as Barsoom by its inhabitants. He discovers that Mars is inhabited by giant green barbarians and creatures of other vibrant races. His great strength, a result of the difference in gravity, makes him a hero among the Martians. John Carter embarks on a series of heroic adventures, which later provide the foundation for Burroughs' subsequent Barsoom series.

'The Gods of Mars', the second novel in the Barsoom series by Edgar Rice Burroughs, is published. This sequel to 'A Princess of Mars' follows John Carter's return to Mars after ten years, where he discovers a new and darker side of the Martian society, including the Valley Dor, a holy land thought by Martians to be a paradise that turns out to be a trap laid by the Therns, a race of tyrannical religious priests. His journeys this time are filled with revelations about the religious and political structures of Mars. It becomes a pivotal point in John Carter's life that shapes the future narratives of the series.

'The Master Mind of Mars', the sixth book in the Barsoom series by Edgar Rice Burroughs, was published. In this novel, John Carter is still the Warlord of Mars, but the story falls on Ulysses Paxton, another Earthman who is transported to Mars. Paxton becomes the protege of Ras Thavas, the so-called 'Master Mind of Mars', a brilliant Martian scientist who has perfected methods of surgical brain transplants. The novel explores themes of identity and ethics related to the scientific manipulations carried out by Ras Thavas. Although John Carter does not play a central role, his legacy and influence are significant for the unfolding Barsoom narrative.

John Carter made his first appearance in the popular comic 'Strange Adventures', Issue #1 by DC Comics in 1964. This marked a significant cross-over of the character into the broader universe of science-fiction stories that comic readers adored. This portrayal captured the essence of Edgar Rice Burroughs' adventures in visual form, allowing comic enthusiasts to explore John Carter's daring escapades on Mars. This iconic series became a hallmark in comic book history for its hybrid approach combining science-fiction and classical adventure elements.

In 1970, Marvel Comics began publishing comic adaptations of Edgar Rice Burroughs' Barsoom series beginning with 'John Carter of Mars'. These adaptations brought the beloved tales of Martian adventure and John Carter's heroic exploits to a new audience, leveraging the visual medium to depict Mars' rich landscapes and its diverse alien races. The comics introduced an impressive visual tapestry that complemented Burroughs’ original narratives and added new dynamics to the adventures of John Carter, the hero who has strength beyond measure due to Mars' lower gravity compared to Earth.

The book 'Barsoom: John Carter and the Gods of Hollywood' authored by Michael D. Sellers, was released in March 1980. It delves into both the making of the film adaptation of John Carter and the historical context of Edgar Rice Burroughs' Barsoom series. The book explores the meteoric rise and fall of John Carter imagery and narratives in Hollywood and demonstrates how the character, despite his storied legacy, faced challenges in jumping to the big screen. It also analyzes broader implications related to creative storytelling and adaptation pitfalls.

House of Hermes released 'John Carter of Mars: The Red Kingdom' in 1996, a retelling and expansion of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ original Barsoom series. A project enthusiastic in visual creativity and narrative, this graphic novel further explored the legacy of John Carter on Mars, depicting both his past adventures and new stories inspired by Burroughs' vibrant worlds. This adaptation sought to capture the spirit of John Carter’s adventures, infusing the world with artistic interpretations that reignited beams to readers old and new alike.

The film 'John Carter,' based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' classic science fiction story, was released. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the movie attempted to bring to life the expansive Martian worlds and the heroic journey of John Carter. Despite its large budget and high expectations, the film struggled commercially and critically, though it was noted for its visual style and ambitious effects. This marked a significant moment in John's Carter existence in popular culture as it tried to bridge the century-old character into modern cinematic storytelling.