The McMahons formed what would become the WWE in the 1950s, transforming the wrestling world forever — a complete guide
to the family
A family affair. For the WWE’s legendary McMahons, professional wrestling is in their blood. The history of World Wrestling Entertainment is so vast that the corporation itself divides it into six different eras. Ultimately, the spectacle all began when wrestling and boxing promoter Jess McMahon (who was born in 1882 and died in 1954) and his son Vincent McMahon (who was born in 1915 and died in 1984) formed the Capitol Wrestling Corporation one year prior to Jess’ death. Six years later, Vincent founded the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF), which would later become the WWE under his son Vince’s direction. In 1982, Vince — who is credited for transforming the WWE into the pop culture staple it is today — purchased WWWF from his father.
