Johnston McCulley

Johnston McCulley (1883-1958) was an American author best known for creating the enduring character Zorro, who first appeared in his 1919 story “The Curse of Capistrano.” Born in Ottawa, Illinois, McCulley developed a passion for storytelling at a young age, eventually moving to California where he found inspiration in the rich history and culture of Spanish California. His vivid imagination and knack for weaving tales of adventure and heroism captured the hearts of readers, leading to numerous stories and novels that explored themes of justice, identity, and rebellion against tyranny.

Throughout his prolific career, McCulley penned over 50 novels and countless short stories, establishing himself as a pioneering figure in the genre of pulp fiction. His work not only introduced the iconic masked vigilante, Zorro, but also inspired a multitude of adaptations in film, television, and comics that have kept the character alive in popular culture to this day. McCulley’s legacy as a storyteller endures, reflecting the timeless appeal of his swashbuckling heroes and the adventures they undertake in the fight for justice.