Here is, in my opinion, the first half of the most political characters. Yes, they are mainstream biased and popular, but it’s done intentionally for that reason. No. 10 to 6:
10. Dr. Doom
Absolute monarch of Latveria, he rules with an iron fist. He always comes back when he is dethroned, and he even kills his prime minister. In his country there is no parliament, only his absolute power and will ruling over the small little nation. Poor little country in the middle of Europe has had several takeovers, and American intervention, but since its capital is named Doomstadt it will always remember Dictator Doom.
9.
Green Arrow One of the most left-wing superheroes in the comic book world. His political ideology has been prominently shown as an advocate for social change in radical ways. During his co-op with Green Lantern in the 70s, GA would argue with GL that direct action was the only way to achieve social reform. Plus, he was once mayor of Star City. His appearance and ideology is modeled after Robin Hood’s steal from the rich give to poor. GA’s advocacy for Marxist Communist mirrors Hood’s crusade.
8.
Lex Luthor Billionaire and founder of LexCorp. Once featured in Forbes Fictional 15 in 2005, and archenemy of Superman. Luthor was once the President of the United States and won the election on a platform of technological advances (vey unlikely for today standards). Eventually he was removed from office, and Lex’s moments in the White House have become once-upon-a-time deals.
7.
Watchmen These heroes had to deal with several forms of politics. First the Keene Act enacted by Congress banned all masked avengers, and destroyed their world’s “hero”. Supporters of the act were generally common citizens, liberal media, and a few of heroes and villains too. The Keene Act was one of the first major times in comic books that the government interfered with heroes’ lives, it would eventually inspire stories like
The Incredibles, and Marvel’s
Civil War story arc. The second political obstacle was the Cold War. Nixon and the U.S.S.R were at the brink of a nuclear WWWII, and it was a major issue in the world, even to the heroes.
6.
Ironman/Mandarin Possible metaphor for capitalism vs. communism. Ironman represents the technological advances of the first worlds (U.S. and allies), the space race & nuclear races were all just major technological advances. Ironman is technology and business against communism. The mandarin is a possible reference to communism, ten rings as social representations and all that. Of course, after the Vietnam War these themes have been toned down.
For Numbers 5-1 CLICK HERE.