John Wayne’s Complicated Legacy
John Wayne dominated movie screens for half a century. He was a tough guy, a man’s man, an all-American hero who lived by his own moral code and let his actions speak louder than his words. His favorite quote was one uttered by Theodore Roosevelt: “If you’ve got them by the balls, their hearts and minds will follow.”
Wayne symbolized a macho, militaristic view of America. He embodied the “Make America Great Again” ethos, a time when life seemed simpler. His life was filled with contradictions. He embraced ultra patriotism but avoided military service. He railed against government interference in private lives but took credit for helping the government rid Hollywood of communist interlopers.
Wayne’s persona was carefully calculated. His real name was Marion Morrison. His trademark swagger was developed with the help of Wyatt Earp and actor Tom Mix. He was a registered Democrat and supporter of Franklin Roosevelt until he realized his career prospects would improve if he became a Republican.
Wayne’s big break came when he met director John Ford. Ford and Wayne developed a mentor/protégé relationship. They made 23 films together including the classics Stagecoach (1939), The Searchers (1956) and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962). Ford molded Wayne into a movie star, often insulting him in the process as when he said, “Can’t you walk…
