Lincoln County War

• Billy the Kid

  Grew up in mining camps in New Mexico, was frequently in trouble with the law for stealing, became notorious for escaping prison
• The Lincoln County War

  1. Conflict between cattle baron John Chisum and rancher Murphy over land and influence in New Mexico

  2. Billy fought on the side of Murphy and played a prominent role in the war
• After the war had ended

  Billy claimed he was going to kill everyone who was responsible for the death of a friend
• Billy went on the run, but was eventually shot dead by sheriff Pat Garrett
• The Lincoln County War and the actions of Billy the Kid demonstrate the continuing existence of lawlessness in the American West
• Many people admired the way he stood up against powerful businessmen and the justice system was too weak to quickly deal with Billy