John Wayne: The Genuine Article is a poignant photographic journey, celebrating the life of a cinematic legend. This intimate glimpse into the Duke’s personal and public lives, from filmmaking and the military to politics and life at home, showcases rare full-color family snapshots, iconic film stills, and unique memorabilia, including reproductions of letters, telegrams, and personal notes—all collected from and authorized by the John Wayne estate. Excerpts from Wayne’s private letters and his unfinished memoir reflect his personality, and interviews with close family and personal friends bring to life one of Hollywood’s greatest stars, appealing to fans of Hollywood and Americana alike.Capturing important milestones of this larger-than-life figure, the book covers his childhood and college years, his early days in Hollywood, the westerns, the war films, his support of the troops, his rise as a political figure, his relationships with John Ford and other Hollywood luminaries, and his personal interests and family life. From cowboy boots and saddles to handwritten letters and classic film stills, the illustrations tell the true story of the man behind the legend.