Being a hero naturally grants you a ton of enemies who would like nothing more than to skin you alive and mount your exterior on the top of a flagpole like a patriotic Leatherface. This is the obvious reason why many heroes absolutely, positively have to keep their identity a secret. Spider-Man, in particular, with his constant quips and desire to berate you whilst beating you senseless has happily earned the hatred of many a super-powered foe. Sociopathic alien goo-monsters, Russian fur collectors and an old man who can fly are just a small percentage of the bad guys who would froth at the chance to learn what lies underneath Spideys mask. Knowing this all too well, what does Spider-Man do when Tony Stark, worst best friend ever, needs validation that they are most definitely bros for life? He goes on stage and unmasks himself on television. Even Janet Jacksons nipple had the common sense to keep itself hidden when the rest of her boob was exposed to the world. In the Civil War crossover event, Tony Stark, looking to deliver a massive blow to the Anti-Registration heroes and set the standard for those who were on his side, convinces Peter Parker to commit superhero suicide and tell the world, "My name is Peter Parker and I have been Spider-Man since I was fifteen years old". Naturally, this revelation comes back to bite Parker in the ass in a major way when he realises that Stark was fighting extremely dirty in order to have the Registration side come out on top. Parker runs back to Captain America, tail tucked between his legs, instantly regretting his decisions. Now a wanted criminal, this ill-fated choice knocks down a whole factory of dominoes, resulting in Aunt May getting shot and Peter giving up his marriage to reverse his choice. Dont fret, Aunt May doesnt die. The woman has been old as dirt since 1962. Shes practically immortal.
