What If...? #3
In *What If...? #3*, a pivotal alternate timeline explores what happens when Steve Rogers refuses to step down as Captain America, choosing instead to remain a free agent despite government pressure. Written by Jim Valentino and illustrated by Dave Simons, with inks by Bob Downs and colors by Tom Vincent, this issue charts a fractured America where John Walker is thrust into the role of Super Patriot, only to spiral into instability. The cover, by Dave Simons and Al Milgrom, captures the moment the world watches in shock as Cap is shot—setting off a chain of events that leads to the Red Skull’s rise.
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When the Commission asks Cap to either work for the government or resign, Cap decides to keep his costume and continue the good fight. The government brings in John Walker to replace Cap and bring him to justice. Cap's controversial decision splits the country until President Reagan steps in and declares that Super Patriot will be the official government hero and Cap will continue as a free agent. That is, until the mysterious Mr. Smith has his agent gun down Cap in front of the world. Walker becomes the new Cap until he grows violent and unstable and is asked to resign. Red Skull wins.
Plot details indexed by the Grand Comics Database (CC BY-SA).