The Man of the Hour

Photograph of Douglas MacArthur on a red, white and blue background encircled by white text.

General Douglas MacArthur is remembered for his successful command of the Southwest Pacific Theater during World War II, as well as leading other military operations, including the United Nations forces during the first part of the Korean War.  MacArthur was promoted to General of the Army in 1944, and in 1945 he was called on to command all of the U.S. Forces in the Pacific area.  

After being removed from commanding the army for insubordination by President Harry Truman during the Korean War, MacArthur was encouraged by conservatives to run for office. During the Presidential Election of 1948, MacArthur became part of the Republican Party's nominees. He even said he would accept the GOP nomination if he won. However, Thomas E. Dewey ended up becoming the nominee against Incumbant President Harry Truman, who ended up winning a second term.