Marie L. McLaughlin (1842-1933) was born in Minnesota and lived in a predominantly Native American community. She was educated at Prairie du Chien before marrying Major James McLaughlin in 1864. Her husband worked with an agency that helped to manage tribal affairs and enforce government policy. During his career, Marie was exposed to various indigenous cultures and in 1916, she wrote and published Myths and Legends of the Sioux. It's considered her most notable work and is comprised of many tales she learned throughout her life.