In Episode 1 of the 1944 Captain America serial, titled “The Purple Death”, we are introduced to District Attorney Grant Gardner, who secretly fights crime as Captain America. Unlike the modern Marvel adaptations, this 1944 version of Captain America is a bit different in terms of his background and abilities.

In this first episode, a sinister villain named The Scarab is introduced. The Scarab is a scientist named Dr. Cyrus Maldor, who uses a device to induce the mysterious “Purple Death” in his victims. His goal is to recover ancient Mayan artifacts, which hold great power and can be used for destructive purposes.

Captain America begins investigating a series of murders linked to the Purple Death and quickly uncovers The Scarab’s involvement. Meanwhile, as Grant Gardner, he works to uncover evidence and bring the criminal mastermind to justice through legal means. The episode ends with a cliffhanger typical of serials at the time, as Captain America faces life-threatening danger from The Scarab’s schemes.

This episode sets the stage for a 15-part adventure, filled with crime-fighting, intrigue, and serialized action sequences, as Captain America works to stop The Scarab and protect the city.