Murder of John Tunstall Ignites Lincoln County War
February 18th, 1878
February 18th, 1878

How Long Ago?
147 years, 25 days ago
Location
Lincoln County, New Mexico, United States
Category
Crime & Law
War/Conflict
Lincoln County War
People
- John Tunstall
- Jesse Evans
- Billy the Kid
- Murphy-Dolan
Links & References
Tags
Murder of John Tunstall Ignites Lincoln County War
John Tunstall was murdered by outlaw Jesse Evans in Lincoln County, New Mexico, on February 18, 1878. This act of violence was a pivotal moment that ignited the Lincoln County War, a conflict between rival factions in the county over business interests. Tunstall was a prominent cattleman and merchant, and his murder marked the escalation of tensions between his supporters and those aligned with Evans. As a consequence, a series of violent confrontations ensued, drawing in local lawmen and forming the backdrop for the notorious skirmishes that characterized the war.
Tunstall was a prominent cattleman in New Mexico.
Jesse Evans was a known outlaw and rival.
The murder triggered the Lincoln County War.
Billy the Kid became involved in the conflict.
What Happened?
The murder of John Tunstall, a British immigrant turned successful businessman, by outlaw Jesse Evans was a key catalyst in sparking the Lincoln County War. Tunstall had established a flourishing empire in the early days of New Mexico's cattle trading scene and was known for his business acumen and community involvement. Built on a rivalry involving political interests and economic competition, the struggles in Lincoln County had deep roots. The tension peaked as Tunstall competed against the powerful Murphy-Dolan faction for control of the lucrative trade in the region. His murder was not just an act of violence; it was an assassination that would go on to provoke widespread unrest.Following Tunstall’s death, his supporters sought vengeance and justice, leading to the formation of an armed group known as the Regulators, which included notable figures such as Billy the Kid. This group engaged in fierce confrontations with the lawmen and supporters of Evans' faction, resulting in a series of violent skirmishes throughout the county. The Lincoln County War thus saw important historical characters facing off in a struggle that encompassed not only personal vendettas but also wider issues of law, power, and economic dominance. The conflict represented a microcosm of the tumultuous nature of the American West during this period.The Lincoln County War culminated in significant violence and a series of killings, as both sides battled for control over the county’s interests. Tunstall's assassination and the subsequent outpouring of rage from his allies transformed what was initially a business dispute into a prolonged and deadly conflict, drawing in numerous local figures and highlighting the lawlessness that prevailed in parts of the West. This war would later symbolize the era's deeper issues of law, authority, and the violent pursuit of power, leaving a lasting impression on the historical narrative of New Mexico.
Why Does it Matter?
The murder of John Tunstall is particularly interesting because it marks a significant turning point in the lawlessness and violence that characterized the American frontier. It underscores the intense power struggles in resource-rich territories and how personal feuds could escalate into larger conflicts. The Lincoln County War solidified figures like Billy the Kid into popular folklore and showcased the complexities of crime, justice, and governance in the Old West.
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