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The Human Dynamo
Speed Comics -1

Real Name

Charles/Robert (see notes section) "Shock" Gibson

First Appearance

Speed Comics # 1 (October 1939)

Original Publisher

Harvey

Created by

Maurice Scott

Origin[]

Charles (later changed to "Robert" without explanation) Gibson, a wealthy scientist, was experimenting with electricity and chemicals when lightning struck his lab. The electrical shock caused the lab to explode, but Gibson emerged from the wreckage with a body that could conduct and generate electricity. His friend and fellow scientist, Dr. Blitzen, pointed out that this power allowed him to change the world for the better. Swearing to use his powers for the good of humanity, he decided to fight crime as Shock Gibson, the Human Dynamo. Despite using his surname in his code name, nobody can figure out who he is under the mask.

For the first half of his crime-fighting career, Shock Gibson embraced the useless weakling playboy cliche in civilian life to allay suspicion. When World War II escalated, he enlisted in the Army, donning his costume when necessary. At first, he tried to maintain the pretense of being weak and useless, but the realities of army life forced him to abandon it.

Shock Gibson teamed up with Captain Freedom, Black Cat, War Nurse, and Ted Parrish to repel the Japanese attempt to invade Los Angeles.

Powers and Abilities[]

He can generate enough electricity to shock an entire river, weld metal, and even blast through metal walls. He also can fly, has super-strength, and can generate electromagnetism. Early on, he needed to recharge periodically, but that became less and less necessary in later stories.

Shock Gibsons 2

Public Domain Appearances[]

  • Speed Comics #1-44
  • Green Hornet Fights Crime #37-38
  • Super-Dooper Comics #7-8 (reprint)
  • All-New Comics #8

Notes[]

  • The character's first name was Charles until Speed Comics #15 when it was changed to Robert.

See Also[]

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