In 1904, Elizabeth Magie patented “The Landlord’s Game” the original version of what we now know as Monopoly. Her goal wasn’t entertainment. It was education. Magie designed the game to highlight the dangers of wealth inequality and unchecked capitalism, showing how landlords could bankrupt tenants while enriching themselves.

She pitched the game to Parker Brothers but was told it was too complex. Decades later, Charles Darrow discovered her idea, made a few changes, and sold it to Parker Brothers as his own invention.

He became the first millionaire game designer. Magie, despite holding the original patent, received just $500 and no credit.