The individual recognized for having the most spouses depends on whether one considers sequential marriages over a lifetime or concurrent spouses in a polygamous relationship.
Who Has the Most Spouses in the World?
The person widely acknowledged for having the most sequential spouses in recorded history is Glynn "Scotty" Wolfe, who was allegedly married 31 different times. For the most concurrent spouses, King Sobhuza II of Swaziland is often cited with numerous wives.
Most Sequential Marriages (Over a Lifetime)
Glynn Wolfe holds the unofficial record for the most monogamous marriages over a lifetime. While one of his marriages was annulled and several others remain unconfirmed, he is best known for his impressive total of 31 marriages.
- Name: Glynn "Scotty" Wolfe
- Claim to Fame: Allegedly the person with the most monogamous marriages.
- Total Marriages: 31 (with one annulled and several unconfirmed).
- Notable Locations: Freelandville, Indiana, U.S., and Redlands, California, U.S.
Wolfe's last marriage was to Linda Wolfe, who herself held a record for 23 marriages, making them a couple with a combined total of 54 marriages. Glynn Wolfe passed away in 1997.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| **Record Type** | Most sequential monogamous marriages |
| **Number of Marriages** | 31 |
| **Validation Note** | One annulled, several unconfirmed |
| **Known Residence(s)** | Freelandville, Indiana, U.S.; Redlands, California, U.S. |
| **Death Year** | 1997 |
Most Concurrent Spouses (Polygamy)
In cultures where polygamy, specifically polygyny (one man, multiple wives), is practiced, individuals can have multiple spouses simultaneously.
King Sobhuza II of Swaziland
One of the most notable figures for having a large number of concurrent wives is King Sobhuza II of Swaziland. During his long reign (1899-1982), he is reported to have married around 70 women. This extensive family resulted in hundreds of children and a vast royal lineage. His numerous marriages were part of traditional Swazi customs and played a significant role in political alliances and maintaining social stability within the kingdom.
- Name: King Sobhuza II
- Country: Swaziland (now Eswatini)
- Number of Wives: Approximately 70
- Significance: Symbolized power, forged alliances, and followed cultural traditions.
Other Examples of Polygamous Marriages
While King Sobhuza II is a prominent example, other individuals throughout history and in various communities have had many concurrent spouses:
- Ziona Chana (India): Until his death in 2021, Chana was the head of a large family in Mizoram, India, comprising 39 wives, 94 children, 33 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, living together in a 100-room house.
- Historical Rulers: Many ancient kings, sultans, and emperors maintained large harems or had numerous official wives and concubines, often for political, dynastic, or religious reasons. Examples include biblical figures like King Solomon, who is said to have had 700 wives and 300 concubines, though the historical accuracy of such precise numbers is often debated.
In summary, Glynn Wolfe holds the record for the highest number of sequential marriages, while King Sobhuza II represents a prominent example of having the most concurrent spouses within a polygamous system.
