Real Name: T’Challa
Species: Human
Country of Origin: Wakanda
Joined the team in: Avengers #52
Powers/Abilities: Genius intellect, master of strategy, skilled fighter/hunter/tracker/gymnast, enhanced senses and physicality by way of the special “heart-shaped herb,” vibranium uniform and equipment, and retractable anti-metal claws
Who/What Is He: Black Panther is the King of the super-advanced African country Wakanda – which controls the largest amount of vibranium on the planet (the extraterrestrial metal that was used, in part, to craft Cap’s shield) – and a generational superhero a la The Phantom.
Why We Want Him: Because he’s awesome? Is that not reason enough? Well, okay, then there’s also the fact that he’s a master strategist on the genius level of, say, Batman and Captain America, and one of the most skilled warriors in the world. Plus, the Avengers could use a member or two (or three) who aren’t strictly Caucasian.