Robert Ford Assassinated Jesse James
April 3rd, 1882
April 3rd, 1882

How Long Ago?
142 years, 11 months, 12 days ago
Location
St. Joseph, Missouri, USA
Category
Crime & Law
People
- Robert Ford
- Jesse James
Links & References
Tags
Robert Ford Assassinated Jesse James
In St. Joseph, Missouri, Robert Ford shot Jesse James, a notorious outlaw. Ford purportedly aimed to collect the bounty on James and sought notoriety. At the time, James was in the process of adjusting a picture on the wall of his home when Ford shot him in the back.
Robert Ford killed Jesse James in his home.
Ford was motivated by a $10,000 bounty.
The act divided public opinion on heroism.
Jesse James was a folk hero to many.
What Happened?
Robert Ford, an American figure turned outlaw, infamously shot and killed Jesse James, a legendary outlaw and the leader of the James-Younger Gang. The shooting took place in St. Joseph, Missouri, inside the home of James, where he was adjusting a picture on the wall. Ford, who had previously been an associate of James, was motivated by a $10,000 bounty placed on James’ head. His act was initially met with mixed reactions; some viewed Ford as a hero while others branded him a coward for killing James in such a treacherous manner.
This assassination marked a significant point in the narrative of the Old West, as Jesse James was not just a criminal but also a folk hero to many. His life represented the struggle against authority and the chaotic violence of the period. Ford's motivations reflected the complex social landscape of the time, where personal gain often blurred ethical lines. Following the assassination, Ford did receive the bounty but faced continuous animosity from those who once revered James.
The incident deeply influenced public perception of the outlaw lifestyle and the violent, lawless nature of the Old West. It also sparked discussions regarding the morality of bounty hunting and vigilantism, which were prevalent during this time. Ford’s life took a turn post-assassination, as he struggled with the consequences of his actions and the notoriety they brought him.
Why Does it Matter?
This assassination is significant as it illustrates the controversial nature of heroes and villains in American folklore. Jesse James's reputation as a Robin Hood-like figure complicates the narrative of law and order in the Old West. Ford's act exemplifies the multi-faceted dynamics of crime, betrayal, and the quest for fame in an era struggling with its identity.
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