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Access Type
WSU Access
Date of Award
January 2024
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Department
History
First Advisor
Elizabeth Faue
Abstract
Since it’s inception, the comic book industry struggled with creators’ rights. Corporations used legal, technological, and hiring practices to subvert creators’ organizing efforts since the 1930s. Yet, creators continue to innovate new strategies and structures to advocate for their labor rights and creative freedoms within the industry. Their greatest success comes from when they partner with fans and consumers. This study explores the American comic book industry through methods corporations have used to bust guild and union organizations and the efforts creators have to fight back. This provides insight for how gig workers might organize as well as an understanding of the changing dynamics of American pop culture.
Recommended Citation
O'brien, Sean, "Comic Creators: A Cultural Workers’ History Of The Comics Industry, 1937-2024" (2024). Wayne State University Dissertations. 4122.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/oa_dissertations/4122