My Wildest Fantasy, or Why Alphas?

Recently over on the M/M Romance group at Goodreads, the topic of Alpha males emerged. There was a bit of contention, some of it on my part, as to what *exactly* being an alpha means.

Dear Santa, I've been a good girl. Can I have him? Love Poppy

Here's the thing. As far as I'm concerned, an alpha is that dream man who will come along and sweep me off my feet. He's handsome and strong, and will beat the tar out of anyone who messes with me. Okay, I may have embellished that last bit. I can't help it. I've been listening to this Bubblegum Rock station on Pandora and "My Boyfriend's Back" was playing. Oh yeah, you're gonna be in trouble!

Most of us get tired of carrying the burden all alone. Some of us are lucky enough to have Spouses, Mates, or Significant Others who help us out. Some of us aren't.

There's gotta be a good reason the alpha male trope has been around for such a long time. He fulfills a fantasy that's hard to come by in real life. Then again, most of us don't want him around all the time. We're strong enough on most days to kick ass and take names on our own. But some days, oh some days wouldn't it be nice to have someone be our white knight upon a fiery steed?

Can I quote any other songs here? *must turn off the Bubblegum Rock station*

So, I'm curious, what does an alpha mean to you? Why do you want them in your romances?