The Human Torch, also known as Jim Hammond (originally, Hamond), is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by writer and artist Carl Burgos, he first appeared in Marvel Comics #1 (October 1939), published by Marvel's predecessor, Timely Comics. The "Human" Torch was an android created by scientist Phineas Horton, off of the tutelage of Victor Timely. He possessed the ability to surround himself with fire and control flames. In his earliest appearances, he was portrayed as a science fiction monstrosity, but quickly became a hero and adopted a secret identity as a police officer for the New York City Police Department. The Human Torch was one of Timely Comics' three signature characters, along with Captain America and Namor the Sub-Mariner. Like many superheroes, the Human Torch fell into obscurity by the 1950s. In 1961, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby repurposed his name and powers for a new character, Johnny Storm, a member of the Fantastic Four who is a mutate instead of an android. Unlike Captain America and the Sub-Mariner, the original Human Torch has had only a small presence in the post-1950s Marvel comic books and is closely associated with the Golden Age.
The original Human Torch, also known by name of Jim Hammond, was brought to life in 1939 as an android created by Professor Phineas T. Horton, a pioneer in the field of artificial intelligence and robotics. Constructed with synthetic material known as Horton Cells, the Torch possessed the unique ability to generate and control flames, although he initially struggled with issues related to this power. In the 1940s, the Human Torch emerged as a stalwart champion of justice, embarking on solo adventures and forming alliances with notable characters such as Namor the Sub-Mariner and Captain America. Additionally, he took under his wing a young boy named Toro, who exhibited similar flame powers. Together, the Torch and Toro confronted various adversaries, including Axis agents during World War II, and eventually became key members of the superhero team known as the Invaders. After World War II, the original Torch faced new hurdles, including a temporary power loss and being buried underground. In the 1950's, an atomic bomb blast inadvertently freed him, reigniting his flame through absorbed radiation. Despite resuming his crime-fighting career alongside Toro, the Torch experienced a setback in late 1955. Recognizing that the bomb's radiation jeopardized his control, he bid farewell to Toro and voluntarily deactivated by burning underground in the Southwest desert. He was later resurrected and he became associated with super hero teams such as the Avengers West Coast, Heroes for Hire, and the New Invaders. In the modern age, the Torch has grappled with identity crises, faced both old and new adversaries, joined the Secret Avengers and reunited with his fellow Invaders several times. Hammond's journey has taken unexpected turns, including encounters with powerful entities like Korvac, and significant power changes. Despite facing personal challenges, Jim Hammond continued to contribute to the superhero community, leaving an indelible mark on history now considered the "First of the Marvels."
