I would recommend 'March'. It's based on real - life events during the Civil Rights Movement and is presented in a way that is easy to understand. The illustrations help bring the historical events to life. Also, 'Boxers & Saints' can be a good pick. It has distinct art styles for the two parts of the story and gives a good introduction to a specific period in Chinese history, which can be interesting for beginners.
Sure. 'Maus' is a great start. It's not only a powerful story about the Holocaust but also relatively easy to follow in terms of the graphic novel format. Another one is 'Persepolis'. It has a simple yet engaging art style and tells a story that is both personal and historically significant, which can help beginners get into historical fiction graphic novels.
For beginners, 'The Arrival' is a wonderful choice. Since it's wordless, it allows the reader to focus on the pictures and interpret the story on their own, while still getting a sense of historical themes like immigration. 'Fun Home' is also a good option. It has a relatable family - centered story that is intertwined with historical elements, and the writing and art are accessible for those new to the genre.