Civil War (comics)

Civil War is a 2006–2007 Marvel Comics crossover event written by Mark Millar and illustrated by Steve McNiven.

Civil War is a 2006–2007 Marvel Comics crossover event written by Mark Millar and illustrated by Steve McNiven. It centres on a conflict over the Superhuman Registration Act, splitting Marvel superheroes into pro-registration and anti-registration factions led by Iron Man and Captain America. The event had major consequences across the Marvel Universe, including changes to team lineups, identities, and government oversight.

Publication and creative team

Civil War is a Marvel Comics event published in 2006–2007. It was written by Mark Millar and illustrated by Steve McNiven.

Premise

The story follows the political and ethical fallout from the Superhuman Registration Act, which requires super-powered individuals to register with the government or face legal consequences. The event begins after a catastrophic accident involving the New Warriors and Nitro leads to public pressure for superhero regulation.

Major characters and factions

The central conflict pits Iron Man’s pro-registration side against Captain America’s anti-registration resistance. Spider-Man, the X-Men, and other heroes are pulled into the dispute, with some groups remaining neutral. Spider-Man publicly reveals his identity during the event, making his civilian life a major part of the storyline.

Consequences

The event reshaped Marvel continuity by changing team structures, public identities, and the status of major heroes. It also led to new initiatives and leadership changes within the Marvel Universe, including the creation of the Mighty Avengers and the 50-State Initiative.

Reception and legacy

Civil War is widely regarded as one of Marvel’s major crossover events and later inspired the MCU film Captain America: Civil War, though the film uses a different plot centred on the Sokovia Accords.