The Yellow Kid, created by Richard Felton Outcault, is widely considered to be the first graphic novel, published in 1895.

Will Eisner is often credited with popularizing the term "graphic novel" in the 1970s, with his work "A Contract with God".

Art Spiegelman's "Maus", published in the 1980s, is widely regarded as a seminal work in the history of graphic novels, for its innovative use of the medium to explore the Holocaust.

Frank Miller's "The Dark Knight Returns", published in 1986, is known for its dark and gritty portrayal of Batman, influencing subsequent interpretations of the character.

Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' "Watchmen", published in the 1980s, is considered a groundbreaking work in the superhero genre, deconstructing traditional superhero tropes and exploring moral ambiguity.

Neil Gaiman's "The Sandman", published in the 1980s and 1990s, is known for its innovative storytelling and exploration of time, mythology, and dreams.

Katsuhiro Otomo's "Akira", published in the 1980s, is considered a classic in the science fiction genre, known for its intricate world-building and stunning visuals.

Alison Bechdel's "Fun Home", published in 2006, is known for its exploration of gender identity and sexuality, as well as its innovative use of the graphic novel format.

Bill Willingham's "Fables", published from 2002 to 2015, is known for its unique blend of fantasy, history, and mythology, featuring characters from classic fairy tales living in exile in the modern world.

Marjane Satrapi's "Persepolis", published in 2000, is considered a masterpiece of the autobiographical genre, chronicling her childhood and adolescence during the Iranian Revolution.

Alan Moore and David Lloyd's "V for Vendetta", published in the 1980s, is known for its exploration of social and political issues, particularly its critique of authoritarianism and totalitarianism.

Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell's "From Hell", published in the 1990s, is considered a classic in the horror genre, exploring the Jack the Ripper murders and Victorian London.

Neil Gaiman's "The Sandman", published in the 1980s and 1990s, is known for its innovative use of the medium and exploration of dreams and the subconscious, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

Masamune Shirow's "Ghost in the Shell", published in the 1980s, is considered a seminal work in the cyberpunk genre, exploring themes of identity, consciousness, and the relationship between humans and technology.

Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson's "The Boys", published from 2006 to 2012, is known for its exploration of the superhero genre and its deconstruction of traditional superhero tropes, satirizing the commercialization and corruption of the superhero industry.