William Moulton Marston

Date of Birth: May 9, 1893

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: May 2, 1947

Biography

William Moulton Marston was an American psychologist, lawyer, inventor, and comic book writer, best known for creating the iconic character Wonder Woman. Born in Saugus, Massachusetts, Marston attended Harvard University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1915, a law degree in 1918, and a Ph.D. in psychology in 1921. His work in psychology led to the creation of the systolic blood pressure test, which became a component of the modern polygraph. Marston’s career was remarkably diverse. He taught at American University and Tufts University, and he also served as a consulting psychologist for Universal Pictures. However, his most enduring legacy lies in his creation of Wonder Woman, a character inspired by his wife, Elizabeth Holloway Marston, and their polyamorous partner, Olive Byrne. Wonder Woman was designed to embody the feminist ideals of strength, independence, and compassion. Marston’s work both in psychology and in comic book writing left a significant mark on American culture. His invention of the systolic blood pressure test was a major contribution to forensic science, and his portrayal of Wonder Woman challenged traditional gender roles and provided a strong female role model for generations of readers.

5 Interesting Facts about William Moulton Marston

1. William Moulton Marston is credited with inventing an early prototype of the lie detector test.

2. He wrote under the pen name Charles Moulton when creating Wonder Woman.

3. Marston believed that women were more honest and reliable than men, a belief that influenced his creation of Wonder Woman.

4. He lived in a polyamorous relationship with his wife, Elizabeth Holloway Marston, and Olive Byrne, both of whom inspired aspects of Wonder Woman’s character.

5. Marston was inducted posthumously into the Comic Book Hall of Fame in 2006.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Moulton Marston

1. “Not even girls want to be girls so long as our feminine archetype lacks force, strength, and power.”

2. “The only hope for civilization is the greater freedom, development, and equality of women in all fields of human activity.”

3. “Tell the story you believe in, not what others expect you to tell.”

4. “Wonder Woman is psychological propaganda for the new type of woman who should, I believe, rule the world.”

5. “Every crisis offers you extra desired power.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, William Moulton Marston’s net worth is estimated to have been around $1 million, adjusted for inflation.

Children

William Moulton Marston had four children: two with his wife, Elizabeth Holloway Marston (Moulton “Pete” Marston and Olive Ann Marston), and two with Olive Byrne (Byrne Marston and Donn Marston).