Fort Apache was the first of what is known as the John Ford Calvary Trilogy. In Fort Apache, John Wayne begins to show his belief in Indian rights. In his character, Capt. Kirby York, Wayne takes on his commander, Col. Thursday, played by Henry Fonda, in disagreement over respect for the Apache Nation. While outranked, the outcome shows Wayne to be right in his thinking. In later movies, Wayne again shows his deep respect for the indian nations and makes clear his feelings on this issue.

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