William Moulton Marston is the original creator of the superheroine Wonder Woman. Under the pen name Charles Moulton, he introduced the character in All Star Comics 8, published in 1941. Marston was an American psychologist born in 1893, and his professional background significantly influenced his creative work. He held a PhD in psychology from Harvard University and was known for his research on the systolic blood pressure test, a precursor to the modern polygraph, as well as for developing the DISC theory of human behavior.

Marston’s direct involvement with Japanese anime and manga works is as an original creator, where his characters and concepts are adapted. A notable example is the 2017 anime film DC Super Heroes vs. Eagle Talon, in which he is credited as the original creator of Wonder Woman. This pattern extends to other animated adaptations originating from Japan and other regions; he is consistently credited as the original author for the various anime and animated film iterations of Wonder Woman, including the 2009 film Wonder Woman, the 2013 DC Nation Shorts series, and the 2019 film Wonder Woman: Bloodlines.

The central and most significant original work attributed to Marston is the character of Wonder Woman. He developed the concept with inspiration from his life partners, Elizabeth Holloway Marston and Olive Byrne, both of whom influenced the character’s creation and feminist ideals. His background in psychology is a recurring element in his artistic identity, directly informing key aspects of the character. For instance, his work with the polygraph inspired Wonder Woman’s signature weapon, the Lasso of Truth. His theories on human emotions and his advocacy for the potential of women were woven into the narrative fabric of his stories, establishing the Amazonian princess as a symbol of female strength and compassion.

Marston’s industry significance lies in his foundational contribution to the superhero genre, particularly as one of the first major creators to center a female hero. His work established a legacy that has continued for decades, with Wonder Woman becoming a globally recognized icon. This enduring popularity has led to her inclusion in countless adaptations across media, including the anime and animation industries, where his original character concepts are continually adapted for new audiences. In recognition of his impact, Marston was inducted into the Comic Book Hall of Fame in 2006.