Crime, Justice and Retribution in the American West, 1850-1900

The book explores the stark contrast between the glamorized portrayal of lawmen and outlaws in Western films and the harsh realities faced by actual law enforcement. It delves into the legal and moral complexities that real lawmen encountered after gunfights, highlighting the necessity of justifying their actions within the legal system. This examination challenges the romanticized narratives of justice in Westerns, providing a more nuanced understanding of the consequences of violence in the line of duty.