Yes, he was a great star and a wonderful actor. And he had an overwhelming love for this country. My husband teaches film acting in NYC - most of his students are from overseas. They are so young they do not know who Clark Gable is or Jimmy Stewart. But they all know The Duke. My husband can never get over that!
I have been watching the Duke’s movies over of late and am quite taken by the sympathy they show for the Indians who were often portrayed as a noble people which wound up in the way of an irresistible progress and lying, grafting politicians. Of course, the “Undefeated” is an exception in which he hates Indians. But it brings to mind the inevitable Leftist Lies about his character painting him as a racist and jingoist.
Just saw one of the lesser ones “Hondo” last night - very good. Funny how he uses the dog in that one like in “Big Jake”.