Biography of Douglas MacArthur

In western literature, the American cowboy was often described as an individual with “mental vigor, such moral attitude, such executive equipment, and such universal genius as ought to serve as a beacon or headlight for the nations” ((()))). Although long gone are the days in which cowboys roamed the open ranges of the west, every so often there arises a person in American history who usurps both the mantle and popularity that the cowboys of the west once held. In 1880, this temperament was adopted by Douglas MacArthur, a man who would harness his potential and quickly establish himself as an extraordinarily influential individual, whose popularity and prestige rivaled that of the President of the United States.
Unlike numerous success stories, Douglas MacArthur was not a flash in the pan. His success did not magically appear to him, but instead, his career and achievements reflected a man whose success derived from years of embodying the cherished American ideals of a strong work ethic and determination in the face of adversity. Although it can be fairly stated that he created much of the adversity that would challenge him throughout his military career, it is indisputable that that same personality was an integral part of the persona that was beloved by millions of Americans.
Despite MacArthur’s personality, the element which endeared him to myriads of Americans, his work ethic clearly established itself as the driving force behind his rise through the military ranks. MacArthur’s overwhelming ambition was assuredly instilled in him from his birth. Not only had he been born in the Arsenal Barracks of Little Rock, Arkansas in 1880, but his father was former Medal of Honor recipient and future General, Arthur MacArthur Sr. (((()...

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...merica, if not only for ending the career of a President. His stoicism in times of tribulation and his resolution to succeed, inspired his troops and earned him the respect of many Americans. While at times his willful attitude drew the ire of his superior officers, it also portrayed MacArthur as an unflappable leader during distress. As his popularity rose, so too did the influence of his voice, and eventually he finally pushed his boundaries too far and was forced into an early retirement. Yet, even in his dismissal he served a purpose, as it helped reinforce the notion that citizens and the President are in control of the military, and not the other way around. Although, a somewhat controversial figure in certain circles, there is no debate that General Douglas MacArthur was always the perfect soldier and an extremely influential figure in the Twentieth Century.