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Wild Bill Hickok

Folk Hero of the American Old West Wild Bill Hickok

Full Name: James Butler Hickok
Profession: Folk Hero of the American Old West

Nationality:
United States of America
American

Biography: A skilled gunfighter and gambler who was involved in several notable shootouts. Along with his reputation as a lawman, this provided the basis for his enduring fame.

He fought (and spied) for the Union Army during the American Civil War, and gained publicity after the war as a scout, marksman, actor, and professional gambler.

Born: May 27, 1837
Birthplace: Troy Grove, Illinois, USA
Star Sign: Gemini

Died: August 2, 1876 (aged 39)
Cause of Death: Gunshot wound

Articles and Photos

Married Life

  • 1873-09-25 Frontiersman and gunfighter Wild Bill Hickok supposedly marries Calamity Jane according to the latter's daughter (disputed)

Historical Events

  • 1861-07-12 Wild Bill Hickok reputed to have shot and killed David McCanles, possibly his first kill. Hickok later acquitted after found he acted in self defense.
  • 1865-07-21 In market square of Springfield, Missouri, Wild Bill Hickok shoots and kills Davis Tutt in what is regarded as the first true western showdown

Famous Americans