from True Grit to Segways

For better or worse, John Wayne's acting style had an indelible lasting impression that epitomized the true grit that characterized American strength, fairness and justice.

Due to his enormous popularity, and his status as the most famous Republican star in Hollywood, wealthy Texas Republican Party backers asked Wayne to run for national office in 1968, as had his friend and fellow actor, Senator George Murphy. He declined, joking that he did not believe the public would seriously consider an actor in the White House.

TV classic Andy Griffith's character, sheriff of Mayberry, had the similar effect of reassuring authority but with a much more human tone. No one was ever evil enough to kill in mayberry.

Gomer the mechanic, Sheriff Andy, Deputy Barney Fife


F L A S H F O R W A R D 60 years and 911 .



How in blue blaazing tarnations did we get to this?
Skeletor Shertoff - head of the biggest baddest federal agency ever, homeland answers to no one.



... and this - shameful images of abuse - Pt. Lynn England with torture victim at Abu Ghraib prison...

... and this level of preparedness / authority worship.




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