In Western literature, the American cowboy was often described as an individual with “mental vigor, such moral aptitude, such executive ability, and such universal genius as to serve as a beacon or beacon.” for the nations” ((()))). While long gone are the days when cowboys roamed the open prairies of the West, every now and then a person emerges in American history who usurps both the mantle and the popularity that Western cowboys once held. In the 1880s, this temperament was adopted by Douglas MacArthur, a man who would exploit 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 his career and accomplishments instead reflected a man whose success stemmed from years spent embodying cherished American ideals of a strong work ethic and determination in the face of adversity. While it could reasonably be argued that he created much of the adversity that would test him throughout his military career, it is indisputable that that same personality was an integral part of the character loved by millions of Americans. Despite MacArthur's personality, the thing that 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 certainly instilled in him from birth. Not only was he 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. (((()...... mid- sheet . ...merica, if not only for ending the career of a president. His stoicism in times of tribulation and his determination to succeed inspired his troops and earned him the respect of many Americans. , while his stubborn attitude at times drew the ire of his superior officers, it also painted MacArthur as an unflappable leader during hardships. As his popularity increased, so did the influence of his voice, and eventually he ultimately went too far and was forced into early retirement. His dismissal also served a purpose, as it helped reinforce the idea that the citizens and the president are in control of the military, and not the other way around a somewhat controversial figure in some circles, there is no debate about this General Douglas MacArthur was always the perfect soldier and an extremely influential figure in the 20th century.