Warning: Spoilers for Captain America: Brave New WorldOf all Captain America's potential successors, Sam Wilson is the only one who is truly fit to take the mantle. Sam's unique perspective allows him to fully understand the weight behind Cap's shield, and he's one of the few strong enough to carry it. His version of Cap embodies the complexities of modern America, and 2015's Captain America: Sam Wilson comic book series showcases this level of understanding.

In Captain America: Sam Wilson #1 by Nick Spencer and Daniel Acuña, readers see Sam struggle with his role in the modern-day divisions of America. Sam quickly recognizes America’s deep divisions, with one side oppressed and the other benefiting from that suffering.

Initially trying to remain neutral, Sam eventually picks a side, making a bold statement to the press that ignites controversy. Accused of being "Anti-American" and told to "turn in his shield," Sam's actions demonstrate a more grounded, contemporary Captain America unafraid to confront injustice and take a stand in today's polarized political climate.

Sam Wilson Is the Perfect Captain America for the 21st Century

Captain America: Sam Wilson #1 by Nick Spencer, Daniel Acuña, and Joe Caramagna

In a way, Sam shows how Steve's history warped his perspective on the role of Captain America. As the "man out of time," Steve’s Captain America was an honorable reflection of traditional American ideals, but he was also removed from contemporary American challenges. Steve's perspective is in stark contrast to Sam's, as Sam understands that the role of Captain America isn’t just about fighting bad guys; it’s about speaking up for the oppressed and confronting the harsh realities of the American political landscape.

Sam is not a relic of the past; he’s a product of modern America.

While many are worthy of taking on Cap's mantle, Sam is uniquely fit for the position. He's not afraid to take sides and make tough, controversial decisions in the face of injustice. Sam is not a relic of the past; he’s a product of modern America. While Steve represented the ideals of yesterday, Sam Wilson’s Captain America speaks directly to the complexities of the present, making him an ideal symbol for the America that readers know today.

Sam Wilson Understands the Power Behind the Captain America Role

And He Isn't Afraid to Use It

Captain America: Sam Wilson #1 also shows how well Sam understands what Captain America really stands for. Sam was as important a character as Falcon, but he didn’t have the in-universe respect and authority that comes with being Captain America. The controversy surrounding his public statements showcases the immense power that Captain America holds. The shield is more than just a weapon; it’s a platform for change, and Sam uses it to challenge the status quo.

Sam Wilson's Cap in the comics is a far cry from his recent appearance in the MCU. In Captain America: Brave New World, the political issues are largely glossed over, and Anthony Mackie's Sam presents a more ive version of the character. While the film had all the ingredients for a political message, it chose to pull its punches in a way that doesn't fully showcase what Sam brings to the Captain America role.

The MCU's Version of Sam Wilson Is Much Different from the Comics'

Brave New World's Version of Sam's Captain America Is Not the Same

It's hard to understand how a movie with a villain like the Leader - a hyper-intelligent unelected official manipulating the government behind the scenes - can fail to connect to the issues America is currently facing. In this way, Brave New World doesn't present the same Sam Wilson that the comics do. While the film version of Sam serves a different narrative purpose, the character lacks the depth and fearlessness of his comic-book appearances, especially when it comes to addressing the nation’s current political and social issues. In a turbulent world, Captain America should take a firm stand rather than try to appease both sides.

He is strong enough to carry the shield and wise enough to wield it for the right causes.

Captain America should make certain people uncomfortable as he reflects what America is today. Sam’s boldness, courage, and willingness to speak out for what is right make him a more fitting symbol for the country than Rogers ever could have been. Sam’s Cap reflects America's complexities, and Captain America: Sam Wilson #1 highlights just how equipped he is to embody that responsibility. He is strong enough to carry the shield and wise enough to wield it for the right causes. Sam Wilson honors Steve's legacy by understanding what it means to be Captain America today - and acting on those convictions.

Captain America: Sam Wilson #1 is available now from Marvel Comics.