James Maitland "Jimmy" Stewart was an American film and stage actor, known for his distinctive voice and persona. Over the course of his career, he starred in many films widely considered classics and was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning one in competition and receiving one Lifetime Achievement award. He was a major MGM contract star. He also had a noted military career and was a World War II and Vietnam War veteran, who rose to the rank of Brigadier General in the United States Air Force Reserve. James Maitland Stewart was born on May 20, 1908, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, the son of... Elizabeth Ruth and Alexander Maitland Stewart, who owned a hardware store. Stewart's parents were of Scottish descent and Presbyterians. His maternal ancestors served in the American Revolution, the War of 1812 and the American Civil War. The eldest of three children , he was expected to continue his father's business, which had been in the family for three generations. His mother was an excellent pianist but his father discouraged Stewart's request for lessons.
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| Birthdate: | May 20, 1908 |
| Birthplace: | Indiana, Pennsylvania |
| Date of death: | July 2, 1997 |
| Height: | 6' 3" |
| Education: | Princeton University, Mercersburg Academy |
| Religion: | Presbyterianism |
| Also known as: | James Maitland Stewart, Jimmy Stewart, The Ordinary Hero |