Wonder Woman‘s creator — one of the most compelling figures in comics history — was born May 9, 1893. He died in 1947 — but left an enormous legacy.

Marston, who originally wrote Wonder Woman under the name Charles Moulton, was way ahead of his time. He not only created America’s greatest symbol of feminism, but he’s credited with inventing elements of the lie-detector test (hey there, magic lasso!). His unorthodox living arrangements with his wife and a second woman is the subject of controversy to this day.

One thing’s certain: He was a fascinating man.

He wasn’t an artist, but the following issues all feature stories written by Marston himself — except the last one, and you’ll understand why …