Elvis has become an important part of the mythology of America. Unlike the many passing American Idols that are worshiped for a time by fans, Elvis is a deeper part of our culture. Elvis has become an American Icon, with deep-rooted "cultural significance that goes beyond any particular qualities he. might have." (Maasik & Solomon) Elvis is more than a household name, he is actually an archetype of the American dream, a physical incarnation of the values, hopes, and dreams of American itself. "Presley is the 'living proof that America is the land of opportunity' since he rose from truck driver to prominent entertainer almost overnight." (Guralnick) Elvis Presley was more than a rock and roll star, because despite his rebel-image, he was truly a figure that could be looked up to by American youth. The message he presented in his music of freedom and the right to be one"s own self completely, combined with the fact that he actually took a great deal of time out of his schedule to talk about problems with young people and actually treat his young and old fans equally. "His long hair and unusual apparel were merely tools of his trade and awarded him access to and rapport with many people particularly on college campuses who considered themselves 'anti establishment.'" (Guralnick) Elvis started out with humble beginnings, then became a famous rock star, and finally became immortal as an American Icon.

             Elvis was born on January 8, 1935, in Tuperlo, Mississippi. His full name was Elvis Aaron Presley, and when he was born to his parents Vernon and Gladys, he was not yet known as the King of Rock and Roll. His birth was a joy and a sorrow at the same time, for he had a twin brother who died at birth. His family left their one-room house in Tuperlo and moved to Memphis, Tennessee when he was thirteen years old. He started playing the guitar at age eleven, but it was not a passionate past-time at first.