Glendon Swarthout was an American author and screenwriter, best known for his works in the Western genre. Born on April 24, 1918, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he gained recognition for his novels, including "The Shootist," which was later adapted into a film starring John Wayne. Swarthout's writing often explored themes of morality and the human condition within the context of the American West. In addition to his novels, Swarthout wrote screenplays for several films and television shows. He received critical acclaim for his storytelling and character development, contributing significantly to the Western literary tradition. Swarthout passed away on September 30, 1992, leaving behind a legacy of influential works.