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Who Is Wild Bill Hickok

Who was Wild Bill Hickok?

Wild Bill Hickok: Pistoleer, Peace Officer and Folk Hero
A legend in his own time, James Butler ('Wild Bill') Hickok was no average Joe when he went head-to-head with his enemies--he reportedly could 'draw and discharge his pistols with rapidity

James Butler Hickok's reputation as the Old West's premier gunfighter or "man-killer" made him a legend in his own lifetime--a distinction shared by few of his gunfighting contemporaries. Thanks to an article in Harper's New Monthly Magazine in February 1867 and some other colorful accounts published in the mid-1860s, Hickok, or rather "Wild Bill," as he was generally called, was soon elevated from regional to national status. And since his death in 1876, he has achieved worldwide fame.
Credited with the deaths of 100 or more badmen, Hickok emerged as perhaps the most prolific man-killer of his generation. But when some of his critics branded him a "red-handed murderer," his reaction was predictable. Hickok admitted his flaws and vices as do most people, but he reckoned that being called a red-handed murderer was going too far. In February 1873, it was widely reported that he had been shot dead by Texans at Fort Dodge in Kansas. Worse, it was suggested that, like all men of his kind, he had died with his boots on. Wild Bill broke his silence of some years and wrote angrily to several newspapers, declaring, "No Texan has, nor ever will `corral William.'" He also demanded to know who it was who prophesied that he and others should die with their boots on. "I have never insulted man or woman in my life, but if you knew what a wholesome regard I have for damn liars and rascals they would be liable to keep out of my way." Two years later, in conversation with Annie Tallant, one of the first white women to enter the Black Hills, Hickok again denied that he was a red-handed murderer, but admitted that he had killed men in self-defense or in the line of duty, adding, "I never allowed a man to get the drop on me."

Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok?

Sketchy details exist about their relationship. Most likely they knew each other. They both lived in Deadwood at the same time, and met now and again. No evidence exists that they had a deeper relationship although it is said that she desired one. They are both buried in the same cemetery in Deadwood, next to each other ( Wild Bill died first, and Jane requested to be buried next to him).

Did "Wild Bill" Hickok have any known children?

It has been rumored that he had children but they had no way to verify it . they did not have dna testing back then . so who knows for sure ? good luck .

How long did James Butler (Wild Bill) Hickok work on the underground railroad with his dad?

“Wild Bill” and his three brothers helped their father Alonzo Hickok operate an underground railroad station in Troy Grove Illinois, helping runaway slaves escape around 1837. He left for the west upon turning 18 after the Civil War where he served as a Union soldier.

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