Douglas MacArthur

Douglas MacArthur (1880-1964), who held the highest five-star General of the Army rank in the United States Army, was one of the most complex and controversial figures in U.S. history. He was First Captain of his class at the United States Military Academy at West Point, the most responsible student assignment, yet his mother stayed in a hotel just outside to be sure he did well. He was among the leading Allied commanders against the Empire of Japan and presided over the surrender of Japan, yet was greatly admired by the Japanese over whom he ruled. An eloquent speaker for his conception of American values, he was relieved by President Harry S. Truman for refusal to accept civilian command.