John Wayne's Roles In The Western Film

John Wayne
“Life is tough, but it’s tougher when you’re stupid.” This was a quote made by the infamous Marion Robert Morrison. John Wayne, being born in Winterset, Iowa, grew up to become an aspiring actor after his college sports scholarship was diminished. He later began to work as an extra, then B movies, up till he reached stardom with The Stagecoach. John Wayne's roles in western movies impacted the future of the western movie industry.
First, John Wayne started his career off, simply working as a prop-man. He was originally in college, however was no longer able to attend after he lost his sports scholarship. After his accident, he then began to work as a prop man and extra. It was not till 1930, did John Wayne get his first lead role

He starred in The Stagecoach, where it came out as a huge success. This star rocketed his career, allowing him to get into multiple western movies. His portrayal of the character also lead to a greater development for Western films. According to Paul Thompson, “Wayne’s character is a man of principle, and a man of duty; he defies the law only because he’s responding to a higher moral calling. As soon as that destiny is fulfilled, he defers to the rules of the land.” (John Wayne's Influence on the Modern Cowboy) This caused Westerns to come back into the film industry, where it was originally struggling before. It was at this time, the WWII broke out, and male actors began to be drafted. During this time, John Wayne was listed as unable, so he was not drafted and continued to perform in films during this time. However, he did wish to enlist, but would either put it off for a film, or was prohibited to join. This lead to his wanting to be more patriotic, which showed later on in his

He played in 84 western films and most were known for being successful. However, if there was anything that helped these movies succeed, it was his portrayal of the American Cowboy. It changed the ways the American people saw cowboys. According to Paul Thompson, “Wayne as the cowboy was an enduring image, and came to define the term for multiple generations of Americans. He was rugged and hard-nosed, but only as far as his surroundings dictated; he was always fair and virtuous, a man of moral conscience and clear principles.” (John Wayne's Influence on the Modern Cowboy) Along with his attitude was his mannerisms which showed that of a tough as iron man. According to John Powers, “No actor has ever been better at embodying male authority.” (John Wayne: Icon Of America's Booming Confidence) His personality as an actor reflected his wanting to be patriotic. John Wayne had always regretted not joining in the war, and felt that for the rest of his life he had to try and make up for it. A factor that was clearly present every time he acted, for he was notable for showing an American way of